Drive-By Truckers, formed in 1996 by Patterson Hood and Mike Cooley, have long been distinguished for their gritty, honest storytelling and a unique mix of Alternative and Southern rock. Over nearly three decades, they've produced 14 studio albums and performed over 2,500 shows, maintaining a powerful presence in American rock. Key band members include veteran drummer Brad Morgan and current members Jay Gonzalez and Matt Patton, who have each influenced the band’s evolving sound.
Their work frequently reflects American life, highlighted in their critically acclaimed trilogy American Band (2016), The Unraveling (2020), and The New OK (2020). This series marks a bold entry into politically charged songwriting, praised for its sharp societal insights. In 2022, they released Welcome 2 Club XIII, a reflective album touching on their early days and the complexities of adulthood and parenthood, reinforcing their knack for personal and societal narratives.
July 2024 saw the release of a deluxe edition of Southern Rock Opera, their influential third album, followed by a North American tour, the Southern Rock Opera Revisited 2024 Tour, where the album is performed in full. This tour celebrates the album that cemented their place in rock history. As they continue to innovate and tackle new themes, Drive-By Truckers remain a defining force in rock, celebrated for their storytelling prowess and commitment to the genre.
Photos and review by Steve Sym. Photos from Drive-By Truckers performance at The House of Blues in Chicago on 11/1/24
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