THE BASTARDS: Fall Risk

Jeff Berkley, prolific producer, songwriter, and collaboration king continues to showcase his musical prowess with his fourth production this year with The Bastards’ Fall Risk. This album, a collaborative effort with beloved San Diego Padres player and musician Tim Flannery, as well as some of this city’s top local musicians, creates a rich sample platter of Americana, rock, and country influences over its 11 tracks.

This project shines, thanks to the talented lineup: Jeff Berkley on vocals and guitar; Danny Campbell on drums; Ben Zinn on guitar and pedal steel; Patrick McClory on bass; Tim Flannery on vocals, guitar, and harmonica; and Shawn Rolf on vocals, harmonica, banjo, mandolin, and guitar. Their collective musicianship creates a cohesive, yet diverse enough soundscape that enriches each track.

Here are some track-by track-impressions:

“I’m In” kicks off the album with a straightforward, commanding attitude: I’m in, I ain’t fuckin around. Keep charging ‘til the end. It’s an immediate invitation to listen closely and buy into the journey ahead. It sets a bold tone for the record.

“Hillbilly Rain” employs exaggerated reverb to evoke the gentle sound of raindrops on a calm lake or river. Lead vocals and lyrics by Flannery deliver a soulful message about sharing wine, whiskey, and moments of salvation while walking through the rain. The clear, rich (baritone?) guitar lead lines add to the track’s atmospheric feel.

“Yesteryear” was written by Shawn Rolf. A raucous, reminiscent song of “ragged glory” days: Growing up is a big fat bore, I got needs and desires I can’t seem to ignore. Another rocker that invites a bar-like group-sing of the chorus toward the end.

“When the Wildflowers Bloom” is a standout. Led by Berkley on vocals, the song employs a train beat and lush pedal steel played by Ben Zinn and is blooming with metaphors about planting seeds, patience, and surviving storms until spring’s arrival. It’s a hopeful, heart-felt tune that resonates deeply.

“Too Far in to Turn Back Now” captures the camaraderie and love among these musicians. Ripping guitar solos and gravelly harmonies evoke the spirit of a lively band on stage, reminiscent of Tom Petty’s gritty Americana. It’s raw, energetic, and full of heart. Hard to capture that live feeling in the studio, but it feels like they did it here.

“Diamonds in the Sand” opens with siren-like guitar screeches and psychedelic pedal pulls, but rather than heavy rock, it transitions into a gentle Americana groove, driven by pedal steel. The song seems to serve as a commentary on the current state of division and hatred in the nation. It’s an emotional plea, delivered by Rohlf, for a moment of peace amid chaos.

“Cursing” kicks off with Shawn Rohlf’s wailing harmonica and a trash-can beat, bringing a rebellious, humorous tone. The song celebrates the catharsis of cursing, with clever lyrics like “Cursin is F-u-c-k fun,” which could easily fit on top-40 country radio. It’s fun, relatable, and a little naughty.

“I Feel Like Hank Williams Tonight” is a Chris Wall country ballad, with a longing pedal steel underscoring Flannery’s Hank Williams-style croon. It’s a classic theme. Who hasn’t searched for the right music to play when your heart is breaking? Flannery nails the emotional delivery.

“Just Get Me Home” is a gritty rock tune that feels like a different band until the chorus hits. The distorted vocals and a mandolin breakdown create a sense of yearning for safety and refuge. It’s an anthem for wanting to escape reality and retreat to the comfort of home.

“Look What You Did” begins with a twangy guitar and clearly establishes itself as outlaw country. The lyrics protest injustice: An eye for an eye leaves a trail of tears. It speaks to fighting for truth. Berkley’s native American heritage lends extra weight and authenticity to this powerful song.

“Ashes to Ashes” closes the album with Flannery’s acoustic intro and stadium-sized vocals. It’s well performed. The song’s themes of mortality and letting go are poignant and familiar, ending with gentle birdsong as a soft farewell.

You can catch the Bastards live at Grand Ole BBQ on December 6 at 1pm or at the San Diego Troubadour Annual Holiday Fundraiser and 25th Anniversary Celebration on Sunday, December 14, 4-10pm at Tio Leo’s.