Soho Dukes – Nighthawks, Acrobats & Everything Under The Moon Album palmer turner overdrive

Review by Darren McIntyre

Soho Dukes are a ragtag rocking blues outfit from London who originally formed in 2017 and have gigged tirelessly and boisterously, giving us two independent releases — Bar Fights & Tuppenny Uprights in 2021 and Golden Age of the Barber’s Chair in 2024. The boys have been busy in the studio working their magic on their third album, Nighthawks, Acrobats & Everything Under the Moon, which is slated for release on the 28th of November and will feature guest appearances from Spike and Dave “Bucket” Colwell. I am pleased to say that I will be reviewing this fantastic new offering for you today, so please sit back, pour a cold one, and get ready to have your mind blown by this epic slab of blues rock ’n’ roll.

Nighthawks, Acrobats & Everything Under the Moon – The track comes to life with a pounding snare drum beat as the cool saxophone tones flow freely through the intro. The mellow vocals come in and let the track gather pace as the twin guitar licks wrap themselves around this fist-pumping groover, giving us that warm, fuzzy feeling. The dark, meaty bassline hits us with cool, funk-laden grooves that add to the swagger of this killer opening track. A slick, crisp guitar solo opens the track up as the cool backing vocals bring depth and attitude to this feel-good rocker. The boys start flexing their muscles in this punchy monster as the cowbell lingers in the background, letting us know they are back with a bang.

Johnny Domino – A cool piano groove oozes from the intro as a full-on bass kick allows the track to breathe, with cool saxophone tones scattered throughout. The vocals have a real raspy tone that fits the arrangement perfectly as the rhythm section hits us with an infectious snare beat. The catchy lyrics put a smile on your face as the swagger grabs hold and we wander freely through this toe-tapping, tinkling track. The cool backing vocals ease through the mix, showing the quality coming from this ragtag bunch of hooligans. The funky low end hits us with moody, delicious tones that wrap around this finger-clicking, toe-tapping groover that gets us on our feet.

Should Know Better – A rousing, thundering snare drum rumble gets this foot-stomping rocker off the ground as the funky bassline drops in with a real groove. The vocals bring a real 80s feel to the track as the slick twin guitar riffs take it down the road. The boys shift through the gears and really tell their story with this classy, fist-pumping bruiser that puts a smile on your face. The whole arrangement is a fast-paced, punchy rock ’n’ roll party that gets us jumping around and loving every second.

A Stone’s Throw (ft. Spike) – A cool harmonica tone oozes from the intro as the unmistakable vocals from Spike echo through, giving us goosebumps. The rhythm section drives forward with snare taps and bass kicks, allowing the track to grow as the saxophone lingers through the midsection. The likeable Spike adds his gravelly, blues-soaked vocals to elevate the song. Swirling piano tones flow freely and add depth and swagger to this good ol’ time classic. A slick guitar solo echoes all around as we just let the musicality do its thing. The mellow backing vocals add richness to this hearty slab of blues as the track builds beautifully.

Elaine – Shredding power riffs flow from the intro as a punchy bass kick announces the rhythm section. The raspy vocals let the track breathe as piano tones shine through. The track sizzles as the boys deliver a honky-tonk groove piece. The sweet bassline runs freely with the twin guitar riffs, giving the track depth as it wraps around the groove erupting from the band. Each member brings their unique stamp to this classy number that puts a big smile on your face.

Suited & Booted – A crunching guitar riff oozes from the track as the brass section leans in and lets the funk come through while the rasping, soulful vocals tell their story. The rhythm section controls the groove as the snare punches rain down on us, and the piano tones elevate the track as the brass section hits full force. A cool guitar solo takes the track to another level as the cowbell adds depth, swagger, and energy to this funky groover that’s just awesome.

Rain on Us – The vocals bring swagger to the track as the saxophone flows through the arrangement. Punchy snare beats fill the air as this toe-tapping rocker leaves its mark. The harmonies ooze class as the full-on bassline drops in and lets the groove flow effortlessly. The boys pull together and deliver a fun-filled, rocky, grooving number that’ll have us hitting repeat for sure. A sweet, mellow guitar solo kicks in the doors and proves these boys mean business.

In Love with Myself – A cool snare-driven punch leads the intro as a bass kick and cowbell lean in to let the track break free. The rasping vocals bring a real Cockney tone that puts a grin on your face. The mellow bassline hits us with a funky groove that tells its own story as the track builds and gets us up on our feet. The saxophone and keys add depth to this harmonious, energy-driven number that wraps itself around you with slick, funky charm.

Sunday Magazines – A punky, pogo-style groove with cowbell rumbles through the intro as shredding guitar riffs leave their mark on this fast-paced groover that just puts a smile on your face. The piano tones scattered throughout allow the groove to flow as the soulful vocals give the track an edgy feel. The cool backing vocals add a mellow touch as the boys deliver a nonstop party atmosphere that’s simply infectious.

A Stone’s Throw (Single Edit) – Cool harmonica tones linger from the outset as Spike’s gravelly, husky vocals leave their mark. The saxophone gives the track a real blues club feel, like stepping into a smoky bar and leading your lady to the dance floor. The lyrics grab your attention while the boys let the music do the talking. The piano tones add that easy-going vibe, finishing off this electrifying album perfectly — fantastic from start to finish.

(1) SOHO DUKES Official Channel – YouTube

Soho Dukes

• Johnny Barracuda – Vocals
• Si Leach – Lead Guitar
• Col “The Duke” Foster – Rhythm Guitar
• Bomber – Bass
• Swerve – Keys
• Ge Blackwell – Drums

Guest Musicians:

• Spike – Guest Vocals
• Dave “Bucket” Colwell – Guest Guitar

Tracklisting

1. Nighthawks, Acrobats & Everything Under the Moon
2. Johnny Domino
3. Should Know Better
4. A Stone’s Throw
5. Elaine
6. Suited & Booted
7. Rain on Us
8. In Love with Myself
9. Sunday Magazines
10. A Stone’s Throw (Single Edit)