The Gossip

The Gossip is one of those bands that I listen to and I can't help thinking, "Why are they not famous and Jack White is?" That's a bit unfair, but I just can't help it. (Anyway, I think that about at least 3 bands a day. It's like getting your fiber--keeps you regular.)

The band has a dude playing guitar, but don't let that dissuade you. (Kidding, okay?) They have a gritty southern rock sound, which makes them, in my experience at least, way more accessible than a lot of more recent punk bands. But as I've said before, we breathe that kind of music in Texas, so maybe it sounds weirder to other people.

Their new album Movement is fantastic, with the lead singer Beth Ditto's voice really jumping out at you--she's definitely inspired by blues singers and it really adds some color to the whole album. Really, she's just one of the better singers I can think of working in punk rock today. The best part is that they don't get bogged down or impressed with themselves like a lot of southern rock-style bands do, but keep it well-paced and interesting.