Lions In The Street - Moving Along (2024)

Lions In The Street’s new album Moving Along is an unflinching showcase of perseverance. The Canadian/Californian band has navigated a career full of sharp turns—burned by industry politics, shadowed by personal hardship, yet fueled by a burning love for music. Their first full-length release in years showcases not just survival but a triumphant roar back into the contemporary rock scene.

Comprising the Kinnon brothers—Chris (vocals and guitar) and Jeff (drums)—Sean Casey (guitar) and Enzo Figliuzzi (bass guitar), the band has spent years honing a sound steeped in rootsy blues rock tradition while forging their own identity.

Also adding to their authentic, working man-like appeal, their backstory reads like a modern odyssey. The group began with promise, signing deals with notable labels and working with big-name managers, only to walk away when integrity clashed with industry demands. This defiance came at a cost, landing them in obscurity and forcing the band members to take up jobs far removed from the spotlight. Yet, they never abandoned their craft, and Moving Along is precisely the culmination of those years in the wilderness.

The album opens with its titular track, a raucous rocker powered by blazing guitar, lively piano, thunderous harmonica bursts, and Chris Kinnon’s gritty, soulful vocals. It sets a high-energy tone, one that “Mine Ain’t Yours” follows seamlessly with sun-drenched boogie rhythms and a chorus tailor-made for live singalongs. The influence of acts such as The Rolling Stones, ZZ Top, and The Black Crowes is evident, yet, the band showcases their own touch from the get-go.

The record also reveals a slightly more introspective, nuanced side on tracks like “Walking Back to You” and “Lady Blue”. On the former, the interplay between melody and groove tastefully harkens back to the Allman Brothers’ sun-drenched brand of southern rock. The latter, on the other hand, is an emotive ballad with more in common with the Eagles’ Californian country-infused sound than anything else. Regardless, it’s another gorgeous number.

Other highlights include “Hey Hey Arlene”, a high-octane, feel-good rock and roll number and “You’re Gonna Lose”, a piercing blues rocker with a simply breathtaking lead guitar outro.

What makes this record special is its authenticity. The band wears their influences proudly, but they bring their own raw edge to the table. The album feels lived-in, a product of years spent fighting for their place in a shifting musical landscape. But, If there’s any criticism, it’s that a few tracks lean too heavily on these familiar blues rock tropes. However, even those moments are carried by the band’s passion, sincerity and sheer instrumental firepower.

If there’s any justice in this world, Lions In The Street will finally find the recognition they deserve. Moving Along is a celebration of survival, a testament to the power of persistence, and, most importantly, a damn good rock album.