Jason Cruz & Howl – Good Man’s Ruin

You’ve got to give Strung Out front man Jason Cruz some serious credit for bucking trends with his latest side project, Jason Cruz & Howl.  While most punk front men seem to be unplugging their guitars for any number of acoustic styles, Cruz stays plugged in and opts for a significant stylistic shift.  Much like when Rage Against The Machine guitarist Tom Morello changed horses with The Nightwatchman, Jason Cruz & Howl slows things down and takes listeners into a wholly unique blend of dark parlour rock meets dusty road Americana.  You’ve never heard Cruz quite like this, but you’ll certainly want to.

Perhaps most remarkable is just how well the band balances heavy moods with catchy tunes in the band’s full length debut, Good Man’s Ruin.  Opener “War Song” is a toe-tapping dose of lively country tinged classic rock that makes Cruz feel as if he has been performing this brand of rock for years.  Long time fans will be shocked at just how imposing Cruz’s cool, controlled baritone comes across after years of Strung Out’s shrill speed.  Combined with some floating rogue chords and the clang of a bell tower, the inaugural lines of “High and Lonesome” will chill listeners to the bone as Cruz’s voice waivers with haunting clarity.  Offset by the confident accompaniment of strong female vocals, the song turns into a lively and ambitious duet.  Likewise, tracks such as “Howl” and “Stab City” make their imposing presence known. 

The first half of Good Man’s Ruin plays out like a sundown approaching dusk; but once the moon hits and the bar lights flicker on, the party really starts.  “Circa Descent” and “Savannah Moon” draw the sonic line in the sand as Cruz looks south of the border for some mariachi-meets-lounge inspired overtones and a spaghetti western whistle that will have you envisioning smoky bar rooms filled with shadowy, poncho wearing figures in shrouding sombreros.  Once the tempo starts bumping and riffs ramp up, songs like “Reno” and “The Leaving Kind” channel a distinct Social Distortion vibe with Cruz showcasing a strong likeness to Mike Ness.

When it comes right down to it, Good Man’s Ruin just oozes style.  Every one of the songs is memorable, although they don’t necessarily stick with the listener individually as much as they establish an overall atmosphere.  With plenty of hard rock, dusty acoustic guitars and a plethora of playful rhythms, listeners will leave Good Man’s Ruin knowing exactly what Jason Cruz & Howl is all about.