Matney – “All Fired Up” [Song Review]

Blues-rock/Southern rock outfit Matney releases their new single/music video, “All Fired Up,” a track from their upcoming album, The Redneck and The Redman. The track was produced by multi-platinum producer/artist Stevie Salas.

Guitarist Michael Matney shares, “‘All Fired Up’ is a night out on the town, feeling cocky and running on all cylinders. The hypnotic, relentless pulsating drive is definitely going to take you someplace.”

Often compared to ZZ Top, Matney’s sound merges blues, funk, hard rock, and heavy metal. “All Fired Up” features Michael Matney (guitar, vocals), Stevie Salas (guitar), and Matt Novensky (bass). Rolling Stone cited Salas as one of the 50 all-time greatest guitar players.

Michael Matney started piano lessons when he was six years old. Two years later, he switched to guitar. Later, he was invited to jam with some friends. Hooked, he played in bands all through school, followed by moving to Nashville, where he played with Tabu, then White Boy and The Average Rat Band, whose self-titled debut album is now a collector’s item.

Throughout his career, Michael Matney has had to overcome immense personal struggles and addiction. He was brought back to the straight and narrow through music and his faith.

Opening on dirty, pulsating guitars, “All Fired Up” pumps out a chugging, blues-rock melody topped by Michael’s gruff, too-many-cigarettes, too-much-whisky vocals. Reminiscent of Billy Gibbons, it’s one of those distinctive voices that projects the thrill of succumbing to temptation. On the solo, dazzling, controlled licks, witness Michael’s guitar prowess.

Matney, photo courtesy of Matney

Rather than big and explosive, on “All Fired Up,” Matney delivers eloquent, viscerally charged yet measured dynamics.

Run Time: 3:00
Release Date: February 9, 2024
Record Label: Roulette Records