Deep in the heart of Georgia, Blackjack Mountain has been brewing up a storm of authentic Southern Rock with their 2021 album, "Holding Time". This trio, consisting of Tyler Bates, Clayton Kingsmill, and Michael Bearden, isn't here to play at Southern Rock; they live it, breathe it, and channel its raw, unfiltered spirit.

"Holding Time" is a masterclass in what Southern Rock should be - not the watered-down, pop-infused sound that often passes for it these days, but the gritty, soulful, riff-heavy legacy of bands like Lynyrd Skynyrd and The Allman Brothers. From the opening track, "What I Need", the album sets its tone with driving guitars, hard-hitting drums, and vocals that carry the weight of the South's musical heritage. 

Tracks like "Red Eagle" and "Witch Of The Swamp" are imbued with the kind of storytelling that Southern Rock is famous for, blending blues, rock, and a dash of psychedelia into songs that feel like they've been pulled straight from the backroads of Georgia. "Loaded Gun" and "Devil In The Dark" prove Blackjack Mountain's prowess at crafting hooks that stick, all while maintaining a heavy, authentic sound that resonates with the genre’s roots.

The album's production, handled by Jeff Tomei at Cock of the Walk Studios in Atlanta, captures the essence of the band's live energy, ensuring that every note and lyric feels like it's being played right in front of you. The cover art by Steven Yoyada further cements the album's Southern authenticity, with imagery that evokes the mystique and ruggedness of the genre.

"Holding Time" isn't just an album; it's a statement. Blackjack Mountain isn't here to follow trends; they're here to remind everyone what Southern Rock truly is about. With every song, they honor the genre while pushing it forward, making "Holding Time" a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the real, unadulterated sound of the South.

Blackjack Mountain "Ultimate Hammer" Holding Time 2021