In the Spotlight: Southern Bitch

An Extra-Strength Bottle of Strong Medicine

"Come On" from the album Snake in the Grass

They say that before Lynard Skynard chartered Convair 240, they had been planning to collaborate with Neil Young on an album, and so a rock n' roll legend was born. What would said album have sounded like? If you have ever wondered what might have been if fate had not taken it's course, then look no further than Southern Bitch. This quartlet from Athens, Georgia blends country crunch with searing guitar leads, powerful rhythm, wailing vocals, and authentic lyrics. Call it southern rock, call it mountain rock, call it whatever you want. I'll just call it rock n' roll, and enjoy the show.

Frontman Alex Musick is the whole package; a talented singer, songwriter, and guitarist. He spouts one of the most distinctive writing and singing styles in recent memory, with a voice that would not be out of place among the classic blues and soul outfits of yesterday. With wife-guitarist Wendy Musick, bassist Chuck Bradburn and drummer Taylor Sproull, the band belts out an alternative meets classic rock fusion that is both refreshing and familiar.

Simply put, Southern Bitch is the real thing: no bullshit rock n' roll that reaches back to the roots of rock without sounding derivative. A blending of poignant lyrics, fantastic instrumentals, and soulful vocals. Somehow they have created a sound that can put out hard rockin' numbers and still keep an indie vibe about it. It is a horrendous crime that this band is not more well-known, as they would be a refreshing dosage for an ailing popular music scene.

"Free Man Now" from the album Snake in the Grass

In 2006, Southern Bitch released their third LP, 'Strong Medicine'. It followed 2004's politically charged 'Snake in the Grass', which featured the hit song Free Man Now. The sound of the Athens' quartlet reaches maturity on this album, and it displays their style to be firmly their own. The lyrics, vocals, and music all click together so perfectly and manage to capture a sound that is classic yet fresh. This is no modern one-hit wonder album, but a collection of great tunes from start to finish. Get Ready and Real to Me may be the standouts, but they are definitely not all Southern Bitch has to offer.


My hat is off to this fantastic band!

Visit the Southern Bitch website to check out their albums!