Published on Feb 24, 2020
While I don't generally feel that a live record is the best introduction for a band new to your ears, the spirited guitar work and rugged country rock of the opening tune “Say What You Want” convinced me to break tradition for the five Lubbock, Texas parolees The Beaumonts.
Often described as a Porno Honky Tonk Band, The Beaumonts recorded this live set at Austin's famed The White Horse, and it’s certainly steered towards the sleazier, dirtier side of honky tonk where no punches are pulled lyrically.
The Beaumonts continue the fun here with the raw and rhythmic “Boots,” as well as the loud and hilarious “Toby Keith,” that's somehow both seriously musically charged and laugh out loud funny, too.
The middle of the set includes the more traditional country approach of “Change My Name,” a song that jokes about the stereotypes in the music industry, while the aptly titled “Money For Drugs” is a slow burning affair with some of the most crass lyrics you've heard… but can't help but smiling at.
Deeper cuts like “Just Ain't The Same” make great use of pedal steel and backing vocals amid a rootsy rock setting, and “(If You Don't) Love The Lord” moves with a raw energy where some more rock'n'roll sensibilities run through the very non-religious anthem. “Burn 'em Down” ends the listen slow and musically rich, but, in keeping with the themes present, is completely iconoclastic if not downright offensive to plenty — not that The Beaumonts care, mind you.
Not only is the music here fantastic, but the between-song banter is so entertaining, you'll listen again just for the crowd interaction. Just as a disclaimer, if you are easily offended or cringe at topics like illicit drug use and sexual acts, The Beaumonts are not a band for you. However, if you don't take your music that seriously, and have a very open sense of humor, this might just be your new favorite record.