Despite performing under this moniker for a short period of time, it would seem that Calling Morocco is prepared to accomplish a lot. The members [Kyle Olson-Vocals/Guitar, Jason Chase-Drums, Zak Norlyn-Bass, Jesse Miller-Keys, and Ziad Younis-Guitar] have played in bands since their adolescence, covering a breadth of music from punk to traditional folk while paying homage to some of their brethren (Jawbreaker, Hank Williams, Drag the River).

Songs comprising the band’s debut focus thematically on the risks inherent in our day-to-day living, as we trudge like bruised mortals through the mists of drunken nights [and] incomprehensible mornings. Olson sums up the experience in the chorus to Break Your Heart: “Look into these eyes. They’re bloodshot from last night. We went downtown and we did our best to raise some hell.” Embedded in this anthem is the sole principle that defines Calling Morocco, both as a group and as human beings: “family” is “not only the ones that are bound by blood.”

Calling Morocco is a valuable addition to rock’n’roll. They’ve managed to import the indefatigable guitars of punk and combine them with the composed and introspective elements found in country music. The grizzled bellows complement the tsunami of guitar distortion, and the slide guitar surrenders it’s vibrato to this eclectic storm with blissful integrity.

These songs represent the agony and succession of risks, and they are honest and piercing exclamations. Read more on Last.fm. User-contributed text is available under the Creative Commons By-SA License; additional terms may apply.