Groovy Raw Garage Rock Delight: The Margaret Hooligans’ “Saturday Night in Bartertown”

With their latest album, “Saturday Night in Bartertown,” The Margaret Hooligans have once again proved their prowess in delivering an eclectic and dynamic musical experience. This duo, consisting of Meg Cratty on electric ukulele and lead vocals, and the multi-talented Mr. Strontium on drums, teapot, and back-up vocals, showcases a raw recording style that captures the energy and essence of their live performances.

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The album’s nine songs, spanning 44 minutes, offer a delightful journey through various musical genres, including garage rock, blues, dance, soul, punk, and funk. Influenced by legendary acts like The Who, James Brown, and The White Stripes, The Margaret Hooligans infuse their own unique sound into each track, creating an addictive musical imprint that resonates with soulful vibes.

One of the standout tracks on the album is “My Dog Ringo.” With its wacky lyrics and catchy hooks, this song will have listeners singing along and tapping their feet. The playful ode to a man’s love for his furry companion is a testament to The Margaret Hooligans’ ability to craft infectious tunes. “The Lost Stilt Walkers” takes the listener on a psychedelic trip with its cinematic and subdued sound. Meg Cratty’s soulful vocals combined with Mr. Strontium’s meteoric drumming create an alt-rock vibe that leaves a lasting impression.

“What Kind of Donut Are You?” adds a touch of whimsy to the album with its quirky feel and playful melodies. In “Hey Love,” The Margaret Hooligans explore themes of love and loss, crafting a heartfelt ballad that tugs at the heartstrings. Meg’s emotive vocals, backed by the duo’s musical prowess, create a poignant and memorable track. “Witch on the Corner” exudes a bluesy ambiance, with Mr. Strontium’s rock tenor vocals and slide guitar taking the listener on a captivating musical journey. The harmonica adds a layer of authenticity to the blues rock track, making it one of the album’s gems.

“I Won’t Speed Up You Won’t Slow Down” delves into the theme of political dialogue and the importance of finding common ground. The song’s timely message and spirited performance make it a standout track that resonates with listeners. The hilariously titled “Doggie Pizza Crust” adds a touch of humor to the album. With its catchy melody and humorous lyrics, the track demonstrates The Margaret Hooligans’ ability to blend fun and musical talent seamlessly. Closing the album is a cover of the Grateful Dead’s “New Speedway Boogie.” The duo pays tribute to their influences, infusing the track with their unique style while honoring the iconic band’s legacy.

Throughout “Saturday Night in Bartertown,” The Margaret Hooligans showcase their musical versatility, from their electric ukulele power riffing to dense vocal layering. Mr. Strontium’s skills on various instruments add depth to the duo’s sound, making each track an adventure in itself.

Produced by Mr. Strontium and expertly mixed and mastered by Jon Huxtable of Smallfish Recordings, the album’s production is top-notch, capturing the live energy and vibe that The Margaret Hooligans are known for. “Saturday Night in Bartertown” is a messy yet powerful and energetic album that leaves a lasting impression. The Margaret Hooligans’ musical imprint and soul shine through each track, making it an addictive and enjoyable listen. With their third album, this talented duo proves they are here to stay and ready to rock your world. So, put on your space suit, take a trip to Bartertown, and let The Margaret Hooligans sweep you away on a groovy garage rock adventure.