Who makes country music from Germany in a modern guise? Clearly, the answer is not Truck Stop but THE BOSS HOSS. Their steep career is also a symbol of the interest in catchy, danceable music from the Wild West. The rising popularity of country music in recent years, especially of the cool country that has nothing to do with the kitschy pop music that many unfortunately still associate with country, has been significantly caused by THE BOSS HOSS. Of course, the death of the old master Johnny Cash also played a role, but the guys from Berlin did too.
After their album “Low Voltage” from 2010, things became a bit quieter for the band.
However, THE BOSS HOSS were not idle. They booked a trip to Texas, sought inspiration, and found it. The film about the band's experiences in Texas is included with the Deluxe Edition of “Liberty of Action.” It is definitely worth watching. It’s a boys' film, but let’s be honest, would we expect anything else? Texas is, after all, the land of rodeos, barbecues, custom-made cars & bikes, and Stetsons.
The inspiration the band found in Texas has been processed into the fifteen songs. It is an album that, at first glance, is clearly what the fans expect. But it is even more. Much more.
THE BOSS HOSS apparently brought back more than just a few ideas from Texas, as the album reveals what the Berliners are now capable of. It’s a lot. It’s even so much that malicious tongues would claim the band has become experimental. However, I do not see this as a negative statement, but rather as praise.
The band dares more!
The first two songs of the album are typical Boss Hoss songs and will be real hits live. I am convinced of that.
The first surprise is “The Answer.” A song that is the sweetest country pop, if such a thing ever existed. Not cheesy, but sweet, loving, yet not tame. A song that will melt every tough cowboy.
The next big hit is “I Keep Dancing.” Almost leaning towards electro-dance-pop, this song is perfect for the disco.
Then it continues with “My Way.” A confident song. It boasts bravado, self-confidence, and zest for life; all of this characterizes this song. A song made to be played loud. Best in a big Cadillac convertible (a Cadillac Series 62 would fit very well or an Eldorado). Very cool. This track could also be seen as the soundtrack of the band's life. They are doing their thing.
Whether it is really necessary to engage so much with “Voice of Germany” can be debated, but perhaps it is just because they want to breathe a bit more honesty and real life into these shows. Let’s forget the show and focus again on the album.
It continues cheerfully with “Still Crazy 'Bout Elvis.” A love declaration to the King. This time also featuring female vocals from none other than Patricia Vonne. A small honor for the guys from Berlin. She has a divine voice. And who knows in which films the capital city dwellers will soon be appearing, as Patricia Vonne is the sister of Robert Rodriguez (among others “Machete,” “Planet Terror,” “Sin City”).
“Liberty of Action” is a quantum leap for the band. With this record, they have not only cemented their status but also show that they are mature musicians who can do more than just country.
