Bicentennial Drug Lord – ‘You Are Never Alone’ [Album Review]

You Are Never Alone, the new album from Bicentennial Drug Lord, ranges stylistically across surfaces of indie-rock, country, and Americana while musing on leitmotifs such as consciously fostering relationships rather than unconsciously destroying them, funerals, and dogs.

Made up of John Daniels (vocals, bass), Rick Donner (vocals, guitar, harmonica) and Alan Weatherhead (vocals, guitar, keyboards, lap steel), Bicentennial Drug Lord’s You Are Never Alone features the talents of Kevin Lumley (drums), and Libby Rodenbough of Fust (fiddle, vocals).

Produced by Alan Weatherhead and Alex Farrar, the album was recorded at Drop of Sun Studios in Asheville, North Carolina. The haunting black and white cover photo was shot by Mark Cherek. Entitled ‘Jou Jou in New York,’ the photo depicts the retro wistfulness of life’s passage and the custody of memories.

“This Pabst Blue Ribbon” begins the album, revealing an Americana melody highlighted by shimmering guitars and lusciously abrasive vocals, gentle and drenched in nostalgic, pensive flavors.

Entry points include “Caught Wishing,” a song about a tenuous relationship born in a bar while drinking and dancing. Aspiring yet realistic, the lyrics narrate a yearning for connection while simultaneously recognizing the prospect of disappointment once the make-believe dissolves.

“Everyone here has plans to go someplace warm / Everyone here is just trying to ride out the storm.”

Bicentennial Drug Lord, photo courtesy artist

The Tom Petty-like “Iggy Pop” travels on heavier guitars, giving off a sonic thickness that complements the strong, evocative vocals colored with hints of delicious, drawling tones. A personal favorite because of the creamy voice of Rodenbough, the country melody of “Rock Bottom” drips with the sad musings of a flawed romance that fades and then returns when both partners “hit rock bottom.”

The final track, “The Gates of Headley Grange,” is at once alluring and beautiful, drifting on light, sparkling textures. Dreamy vocals give the lyrics the ethereal mood of remembrance and a desire for union instead of loneliness. The sway of the melody charms and appeals to the heart.

On You Are Never Alone, Bicentennial Drug Lord unveils the supple, silky sensation of being fond of the multiplicity of life.

You Are Never Alone Track Listing:

1. This Pabst Blue Ribbon
2. Caught Wishing
3. The Ballad Of Snooki The Pit
4. Iggy Pop
5. Like An Accident
6. Daylight Through Your Eyes
7. Rock Bottom
8. Before The Icicles And Frost
9. Awake Awake
10. The Gates of Headley Grange

Run Time: 30:37
Release Date: June 20, 2025
Record Label: Vfib Records