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Honky: 421

421 is the latest release by Honky, an Austin trio and brainchild of Jeff Pinkus of The Butthole Surfers. A band with background inspiration from their native Texas, Honky has recorded for the last 15 years, fusing their alternative sound with the "honky" rock styles of ZZ Top and Black Oak Arkansas. Formed in 1996, during the height of the Surfer's "Electriclarryland," Pinkus (who left in '94) hit hot spots playing live with his new band for several dates before their debut two years later.

Pinkus, probably one of the hardest working men in rock, has engineered, produced, recorded, photographed, composed, and also made guest appearances for other bands throughout the 1990's and 2000's, while taking on guitar and vocal duty with the Surfers and Honky. Along with Lance Farley and Carson Vester (now replaced by Gable Barber), Pinkus tried to recreate the Surfer's element of Southern twang with the new assembly and have well delivered -- although, for better or worse, leaning more to the styles of punk.

421 is something very new. Keeping up with psychobilly, the album shows the band taking a turn toward garage metal with lyrics that will make you laugh or think, depending on your mindset. If you're familiar with Honky or Butthole Surfers' past work, you should be acquainted with lines like "bitch, you know i love you..." as Pinkus carries on the brash comedy of the band he played bass for, along with the darker tones of the new album with songs like "Woke Up Dead" and "All For Nothin."

421 stays true to the point of Honky in general by putting real life attitude into song, be it Texan style or all out rock 'n roll. Accept this album as another product of Pinkus' Surfers/Honky career since it sticks with the formula that he has used for the last three decades. I recommend this album for party moods and depressive moments equally, as 421 caters to all those who like to rock, dance, or zone out.



-Ravebaby, GameVortex Communications
AKA Josh Daniel
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