Strongarm and the Bullies - Drive On

The wait has been long—19 years, to be precise—since You've Had it Coming, the debut album from California's Strongarm and the Bullies. With such an extended hiatus, you might expect Drive On to feel like a stitched-together patchwork of tracks recorded across different eras. Instead, the album flows effortlessly, as if no time has passed at all. The band's street rock 'n' roll sound is confident, vibrant, and full of life, thanks in no small part to Erick Barnes, who you might also recognize from Live By The Sword. His raw, emotive vocal delivery—equal parts grit and soul—anchors the album, bringing an authenticity that complements the music’s roots in punk and Oi!.

At its core, Drive On is a dynamic blend of high-energy rockers and emotionally resonant blues-infused ballads. Tracks like “Sinner or Saint” and “More Than a Friend” are pogo-worthy anthems that harken back to the urgency of acts like The Bruisers. Meanwhile, songs such as “My Disease” channel a darker, more introspective vibe, reminiscent of Social Distortion’s Prison Bound era. The album’s lyrical range is just as compelling—take “Red, White & Blue,” a pointed critique of right-wing extremism in the U.S., which showcases the band’s willingness to tackle serious social and political issues head-on.

Musically, the record balances tight, up-tempo rhythms with bluesy undercurrents, creating a sound that’s equally suited for sweaty dive bars and thoughtful late-night listening. The punk rock "oh-hoo" choruses inject energy, while the nuanced blues touches provide emotional depth. Barnes’ voice, sharp and rugged like a hand-forged blade, cuts through each track with both precision and passion.

Drive On doesn’t just pick up where the band left off; it sets a new standard for street rock 'n' roll, proving that good things really do come to those who wait.