Kareeta – Freeway Junkie Queen

California country rock is back in a big way with the release of Kareeta’s second LP, Freeway Junkie Queen, out tomorrow, July 7th via North Shore. Produced by Greg Loiacono and recorded at Dave Schools’s Spacecamp studio, Schools joins the band on bass, with founding members Chuck Harris on vocals, Jon Siembieda, Aaron Barnes, and Loiacono on guitar, and Brian Lara on drums, along with Jerry Joseph, Brent Brandon, Jason Reed, and Hannah Radley.

Freaks’ ears will perk up when hearing the opening lyrics of “Remember the Girl,” followed by the driving guitar work of the title track and Jerry Joseph’s unmistakable growl. There’s a humor and nostalgia in “Ain’t No Hippies” (…left in California, is the rest of that lyric). “6 Swung 9” reverberates with a pure high lonesome vibe, excellent modern outlaw fare. The keys on “Told Me To” are a highlight for this pianist.

Even with its robust personnel, the band runs like a well-oiled machine, delivering a sound that’s never over the top, too loose or maximalist. The grooves run deep, the lyrics hit hard, and they make the music sound effortless. Can’t wait to catch these guys live again.

Kareeta has made big strides in their writing and  live performance since the last record we made. Chuck’s storytelling and imagery is always so vivid  and engaging. He takes you through different aspects of his world via the lyrics and each song is a  strange and moving journey. The band delivered very strong, live floor takes this go around. We could tell they had gotten a lot of shows under their belt. It was fun watching and hearing Dave Schools and his bass playing fold right into Brian, Aaron and Jon’s pocket so seamlessly. I think this is a fantastic album.

Greg Loiacono

Get Kareeta’s Highway Junkie Queen on Bandcamp