The Whole Story (Feralette, 2001)

Nashville newcomers by way of Connecticut and California, The Swaggerts launched their assault on the country music world with a bang! Thanks to the influences of newly anointed singer/songwriter Bill Collins (formerly the band's second guitarist), The Swaggerts serve up a musical stew heavily spiced with punk and rockabilly flavor.

If you like your music twangy but rocking and snarling, The Swaggerts display the rockabilly swing of greats such as Gene Vincent on cuts such as "Jezebel" and "Big Ol' But." "Telling My Bad Dreams to You" sounds so much like a lost Waco Brothers track one has to check to see whether Jon Langford isn't doing a guest vocal stint. Several other tracks recall a toned-down version of the hardcore punkabilly style of Rev. Horton Heat. The closing "Big Beach Jihad" is a real gem, a surf-guitar instrumental that would be right at home on any Dick Dale album.

Although unfamiliar territory for some country fans, The Swaggerts should hold plenty of appeal for those who prefer a shot of white lightning to fine Tennessee sippin' whiskey.