Big Rock Finish… reviews of independent music

Name: The Matadors Album: Horrorbilly 9000 Released: 2006 Members: Howlin’ Hooch Parkins - Guitar/Vocals Creepin’ Jeff Sheppard - Bass/Backing Vocals Rob ‘the hatchet’ Carvell - Drums Website: www.thematadors.net Label: Stereo Dynamite Recordings Favourite Song: 9 Shots of Bourbon (Track 13)

I’ve known The Matadors for a while now, they play every BMEfest I’ve ever been to, as well as all the freak-show events my friends throw… and after years of crazy dancing in front of their stage while they rock out as only rockabilly rockers can rock. I’ve heard rumours the bassist is a man-whore, but if you could see what, and how, he plays, you really couldn’t blame him.

The Matadors are pretty standard rockabilly, with a horror theme. That would explain the “Horrorbilly” label they give themselves. I haven’t found anyone who’s been offended by their music, even though you would assume that if the songs are inspired by the devil that EVERYONE would be offended by it!

The songs on Horrorbilly 9000 are all super catchy, and easy to listen to. I don’t normally listen to rockabilly music, but they’ve got a great way about it that makes you get up and dance. Each song is pretty unique. They sing about drinking, and girls, and corpses, and gore. Some of the songs, if you just read the lyrics you’d think depressing, emo, and sad, but when you pop the CD in you’ll think differently.

I would listen to this album everywhere. I’ve listened to it in my car, I’ve heard songs played on college radio (especally during Halloween!) I’ve had friends play it at parties, lots of my friends get them to play live at their club events… the list goes on. Halloween parties would be a top favourite, but any time I need cheering up, I just pop the CD in. It works. Try it.