The Gourds - Gogitchyershinebox (1998)

In 1998, Austin, TX, alt-country rockers the Gourds released the eight-track EP Gogitchyershinebox as a companion piece to their full-length album Stadium Blitzer. In a somewhat predictable twist of fate, it was the EP's cover of Snoop Dogg's "Gin and Juice" that garnered the most attention and radio play. The idea of an alternative country act recording a word-for-word cover of a gangsta rap tune may sound like a quick way to get an easy laugh and, although hearing the lyrics belted out in a Southern drawl is hilarious, the tune succeeds as much more than a novelty piece. Using acoustic guitar, mandolin, bass, and drums, the Gourds approach the song without a hint of irony or sarcasm. The straight-faced delivery not only makes for a rootsy, foot-stomping track, but also provides far more humor than a tongue-in-cheek approach would have. It is obvious that the band intends this as a tribute, not a parody. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the cover of David Bowie's "Ziggy Stardust." The vocals are sloppy and try too hard to be irreverent. Four songs from Stadium Blitzer appear on the EP, including an electrified "Magnolia," which offers evidence that this band can write original catchy tunes as well. Their own material stands up well next to the two covers, and ranges from straight-up country and bluegrass to slide guitar-drenched blues-rock. The last five tracks are somewhat unpolished live recordings from a 1998 performance in Amsterdam. The Netherlands may not seem like the logical choice for these twangy rockers to record a show but, then again, Snoop Dogg may not seem like a logical choice for inspiration. "Logic" aside, Gogitchyershinebox is a quirky, feel-good EP that leaves the listener wanting more.