EP REVIEW: Georgiana – Naked Gypsy Queens

Nostalgia is a powerful element in our world, especially when it comes to music. People love to hear sounds that are already similar to them, but also add something new into the mix to define that band or artist and keep people coming back for more. That’s why bands like GRETA VAN FLEET and the whole New Wave Of Classic Rock are so popular. With that and the sound making its way back into the mainstream, it only makes sense to join in and create more modern classic rock for old and new fans to enjoy, as Tennessee’s NAKED GYPSY QUEENS have done with their latest EP, Georgiana. So, with many influences to choose from in the sound of classic rock, is this EP a runaway success or a copycat calamity?

One thing to note about the band is that there is a lot of blues influence heard in their music, as indicated by their opening self-titled track. This harkens back to their early hard rock beginnings, where blues was given a faster tempo and a distorted sound. With that sound and strong riffs, the song is an excellent way to kick off the EP. It’s a pure and classic sound in rock that’s filled with smooth lyrics that melt their way to the listener’s heart – a strong way to begin any record, let alone an extended play. The second track, Down To The Devil, emphasises that blues sound further, exemplifying that Southern rock influence in their vocals and the guitar work. The drum rhythms are something to behold, and lay the foundation for an excellent song that matches the fierce lyrics and vocals. 

Strawberry Blonde #24 fits more into that 70s FLEETWOOD MAC-esque style. It’s a smooth track, with a couple of funk elements thrown in as well. The guitar riffs, once again, are brilliant, showcasing how talented the band are in terms of composing the riffs and also executing them within each track so far to capture their individual tone. Wolves takes a slower rock mood and amplifies those blues roots to create a lush song. The vocals especially in this song are just right, with each line and each lyric given the right amount of emotion needed to convey the song’s themes. Finally, closing track If Your Name’s New York (Then Mine’s Amsterdam) is certainly the best song on the record. It’s heartfelt and soulful, whilst also absolutely pouring with musical talent and creative lyricism. The music is beautiful, offering something not only to vibe with, but also something that’s needed if the listener wants to pour their heart out to a song that can resonate with them badly. 

Overall, this EP kicks it out of the park, showcasing amazing musicianship and creative and talented lyric writing, as well as illustrating how to take on a nostalgic sound whilst making it their own. NAKED GYPSY QUEENS have shown they’re not a band to skip over and Georgiana is already another jewel in the NWOCR crown. 

Rating: 9/10

Georgiana is set for release on February 11th via Mascot Records.

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