Preacher Stone – By The Horns: Southern Rock With Heart and Grit

Review By Glen Parkes

Southern rock legends Preacher Stone are back with their newest studio album, By The Horns, and it’s a bold statement of grit, emotion, and rock ‘n’ roll spirit. Released on October 17, the album sees the North Carolina quintet digging deep into their personal trials and triumphs, delivering a collection of nine tracks that are raw, honest, and unapologetically alive.

Recorded at the renowned Gat3 Studios in Charlotte, North Carolina, and produced by multi-Grammy-winning Glenn Tabor, By The Horns captures the energy and authenticity that fans have come to expect from Preacher Stone. The band took a hands-on approach in the studio, experimenting with different mic setups for drums and amps, keeping overdubs to a minimum, and letting the performances speak for themselves. The result is a record that feels both intimate and powerful—like the band is right there in the room with you.

The album opens with the title track, “By The Horns,” a punchy, guitar-driven statement of purpose. From the first riff, you can hear the energy that’s made Preacher Stone a live favourite. Ronnie’s vocals carry the story with conviction, while Ben Robinson and Darrell Whitt’s twin guitars cut through with swagger, setting the tone for an album that mixes southern rock tradition with fresh intensity.

“Saddled And Rode” follows, showcasing the band’s ability to blend storytelling with grit. It’s a high-octane track that feels like a night out at a smoky bar, full of heart and attitude. The rhythm section of Jim Bolt on bass and Wyatt on drums locks in tightly, driving the song forward while leaving room for those fiery guitar solos that have become a Preacher Stone trademark.

“Writing On The Wall” slows things slightly, offering a reflective moment without losing momentum. The lyrics delve into personal struggles and lessons learned, with the band proving that southern rock can carry emotional weight as well as power. It’s a reminder that these guys aren’t just about loud guitars—they write about life, hardship, and triumph in a way that resonates deeply with listeners.

“The Devil You Know” turns up the intensity again, rocking hard while exploring the darker side of human experience. It’s one of the album’s most emotionally charged moments, with Ronnie’s vocals and the twin guitars delivering tension and release in perfect balance. Preacher Stone have always had a knack for storytelling, and this track is a prime example of how they can combine narrative with musical punch.

“Blessing And A Curse” adds depth and contrast to the record, its bluesy undertones giving space for the band to show off their dynamics. You can hear the years of experience in every note—the way the guitars weave around each other, the subtle groove of the rhythm section, and the way Ronnie’s voice carries the weight of the lyrics. It’s a track that hits with a quiet strength before building to a cathartic finish.

Old-school fans will appreciate “Old Joe,” which feels like it could have come straight from a 70s rock record. It’s got that classic swagger, storytelling about the common man, and plenty of smoky barroom charm. You can imagine this one going down a storm live, and it perfectly captures the band’s ability to mix nostalgia with fresh energy.

“The Last To Know” is another highlight, balancing melody and drive in a way that shows Preacher Stone’s versatility. It’s got hooks that stay with you, guitar lines that soar, and lyrics that cut to the core of human experience. The band isn’t afraid to tackle the ups and downs of life, and it comes through in every riff and vocal inflection.

“Come What May” is an anthemic closer that sums up the album’s message: resilience, brotherhood, and passion for music. There’s an uplifting quality here, a sense that despite personal turmoil or industry pressures, Preacher Stone continue to play for the fans and each other. It’s a fitting end to an album that’s both hard-hitting and heartfelt.

Finally, “Think By Now” wraps the record with a punchy, no-nonsense southern rock groove. It leaves you with the feeling that Preacher Stone are still firing on all cylinders—fully aware of their history, yet always moving forward. It’s a statement that this band is alive, kicking, and ready to keep delivering the kind of rock music that fans crave.

By The Horns isn’t just another southern rock album—it’s a statement of perseverance, brotherhood, and the joy of playing music that matters. From raw, fiery riffs to reflective lyrics, Preacher Stone have crafted a record that both honours their roots and proves they’re still pushing forward. With the UK tour on the horizon, fans will get to experience these tracks live, and there’s no doubt the energy and honesty of By The Horns will translate perfectly to the stage.

For anyone who loves rock with heart, guitar-driven power, and storytelling that hits home, this album is a must-listen. Preacher Stone have once again shown that southern rock is about more than style—it’s about soul, honesty, and grabbing life by the horns.

Tracklist:

1. By The Horns
2. Saddled And Rode
3. Writing On The Wall
4. The Devil You Know
5. Blessing And A Curse
6. Old Joe
7. The Last To Know
8. Come What May
9. Think By Now