Guns of Navarone
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Guns of Navarone

Austin, Texas, United States | SELF

Austin, Texas, United States | SELF
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"Local Band Gains Popularity With It's Uniquely Eclectic Sound"

THE DAILY TEXAN

By Mary Lingwall
Daily Texan Staff
Published: Thursday, February 11, 2010
Updated: Thursday, February 11, 2010

Usually, it takes a few years for a local band to get notoriety in Austin. However, only about seven months after its first jam session and a few weeks away from recording its debut EP, Guns of Navarone is quickly gaining an enthusiastic, eclectic fan base.

When Guns of Navarone played at The Parlor on North Loop Boulevard a few Fridays ago, I was struck by the diversity of fans at the show. Amid the plaid-clad regulars of the Austin music scene, I also ran into two college students in cowboy boots and quite a few fresh-faced college-aged women.

When Guns of Navarone started playing, I realized why the band’s fan base not only packed The Parlor to capacity, but also drew from diverse music subcultures. By mixing alternative-country aesthetics with detailed and upbeat guitar riffs, and bass lines of a Southern rock flavor with the songwriting and vocal stylings of Americana and folk traditions, Guns of Navarone’s sound fills a unique — and largely vacant — musical niche in Austin.

Guns of Navarone’s sound is the natural product of a collaborative process between Seth Grueneberg on lead guitar, Cory Reinisch on vocals and guitar, Richard Knox on drums and Dustin Meyer on bass guitar. Longtime friends and former roommates, R3inisch and Knox have played music together since college.

“We did mostly covers,” Reinisch said before starting to laugh. “Well, that was a lie, it was all covers. [And] we have been talking ever since we graduated that this was something we wanted to continue and do our own original stuff.”

Oddly enough, Reinisch’s aesthetic — born out of a lifelong attraction to bands like Wilco, Whiskeytown and Uncle Tupelo — caught the attention of Grueneberg, local musician and former guitarist for local punk outfit Consider the Source. After meeting at a happy hour, Reinisch and Grueneberg began talks about putting a band together.

“Seth kind of lit [the] fire under my ass,” said Reinisch. “I thought he was just bullshitting me, honestly. Until he showed up at my house.”

Even though Grueneberg’s musical background is more in tune with more roguish styles of rock, he has actually become the spearhead of the band’s folksier edge. Guns of Navarone’s occasional mandolin-playing comes straight from Grueneberg’s affinity for the instrument.

“Seth is just such a naturally good musician that he picked [my mandolin] up and started writing these amazing parts with it,” Reinisch said. “When we bring a song in and we feel like it needs something added, we just do whatever feels natural.”

On their way into the studio to cut their first EP later this month, the bandmates are humbly aware of their freshness in such a music-saturated scene.

“Seth has been there with Consider the Source [for all those years],” Reinisch said. “And he has seen bands go up and have their falling. [We know that we] are still so young and new and in the infancy stages.”

But veteran knowledge and green ambitions haven’t given Guns of Navarone a sense of entitlement.

“I just want to play something [like] this,” Grueneberg said matter-of-factly.

“And we’ve got a great guy in our corner with James [Taylor, of Giant Steps Productions],” Reinisch said. “He’s been helping us with shows. And without him, I think that this would have been a much more strenuous process.”

With a full set of songs under its belt, the band is already preparing for a full-length recording this summer. But big plans and growing attention hasn’t changed what these guys really are — a group of friends down for just about anything, from talking about music to offering dating advice.

“You’ll wake up someday, and it will all make sense,” Reinisch said.

But, for some reason, I think his advice is more apt for his story than mine. After toying with his guitar almost his entire life, I think Reinisch is finally onto something.






Rebecca Miller/The Daily Texan
- The Daily Texan


"Local Band Gains Popularity With It's Uniquely Eclectic Sound"

THE DAILY TEXAN

By Mary Lingwall
Daily Texan Staff
Published: Thursday, February 11, 2010
Updated: Thursday, February 11, 2010

Usually, it takes a few years for a local band to get notoriety in Austin. However, only about seven months after its first jam session and a few weeks away from recording its debut EP, Guns of Navarone is quickly gaining an enthusiastic, eclectic fan base.

When Guns of Navarone played at The Parlor on North Loop Boulevard a few Fridays ago, I was struck by the diversity of fans at the show. Amid the plaid-clad regulars of the Austin music scene, I also ran into two college students in cowboy boots and quite a few fresh-faced college-aged women.

When Guns of Navarone started playing, I realized why the band’s fan base not only packed The Parlor to capacity, but also drew from diverse music subcultures. By mixing alternative-country aesthetics with detailed and upbeat guitar riffs, and bass lines of a Southern rock flavor with the songwriting and vocal stylings of Americana and folk traditions, Guns of Navarone’s sound fills a unique — and largely vacant — musical niche in Austin.

Guns of Navarone’s sound is the natural product of a collaborative process between Seth Grueneberg on lead guitar, Cory Reinisch on vocals and guitar, Richard Knox on drums and Dustin Meyer on bass guitar. Longtime friends and former roommates, R3inisch and Knox have played music together since college.

“We did mostly covers,” Reinisch said before starting to laugh. “Well, that was a lie, it was all covers. [And] we have been talking ever since we graduated that this was something we wanted to continue and do our own original stuff.”

Oddly enough, Reinisch’s aesthetic — born out of a lifelong attraction to bands like Wilco, Whiskeytown and Uncle Tupelo — caught the attention of Grueneberg, local musician and former guitarist for local punk outfit Consider the Source. After meeting at a happy hour, Reinisch and Grueneberg began talks about putting a band together.

“Seth kind of lit [the] fire under my ass,” said Reinisch. “I thought he was just bullshitting me, honestly. Until he showed up at my house.”

Even though Grueneberg’s musical background is more in tune with more roguish styles of rock, he has actually become the spearhead of the band’s folksier edge. Guns of Navarone’s occasional mandolin-playing comes straight from Grueneberg’s affinity for the instrument.

“Seth is just such a naturally good musician that he picked [my mandolin] up and started writing these amazing parts with it,” Reinisch said. “When we bring a song in and we feel like it needs something added, we just do whatever feels natural.”

On their way into the studio to cut their first EP later this month, the bandmates are humbly aware of their freshness in such a music-saturated scene.

“Seth has been there with Consider the Source [for all those years],” Reinisch said. “And he has seen bands go up and have their falling. [We know that we] are still so young and new and in the infancy stages.”

But veteran knowledge and green ambitions haven’t given Guns of Navarone a sense of entitlement.

“I just want to play something [like] this,” Grueneberg said matter-of-factly.

“And we’ve got a great guy in our corner with James [Taylor, of Giant Steps Productions],” Reinisch said. “He’s been helping us with shows. And without him, I think that this would have been a much more strenuous process.”

With a full set of songs under its belt, the band is already preparing for a full-length recording this summer. But big plans and growing attention hasn’t changed what these guys really are — a group of friends down for just about anything, from talking about music to offering dating advice.

“You’ll wake up someday, and it will all make sense,” Reinisch said.

But, for some reason, I think his advice is more apt for his story than mine. After toying with his guitar almost his entire life, I think Reinisch is finally onto something.






Rebecca Miller/The Daily Texan
- The Daily Texan


"Austin Music Minute"

Guns of Navarone have been described as alt.-country, and there is indeed a style similar to that ofUncle Tupelo or Old 97s. However, the local quartet, featuring songwriter and vocalist Cory Reinisch, guitarist Seth Grueneberg, bassist Dustin Meyer and drummer Richard Knox, brings a lot more to the table than that.

On Guns of Navarone’s new album, Prize and Battlefield, Reinisch admits you can hear the traditional folk and country sounds – and let’s not forget the guitar- and banjo-picking, especially the slide guitar, and a bit of a twang in there – but it’s not simply country. “I grew up in that soundscape and it naturally influences a lot of what I write,” Reinisch explains. “Dustin is very similar in that regard, whereas Seth and Richard grew up listening to punk and hardcore records. So when I bring an idea in, we sort of strip it back, then accentuate certain elements that we feel are important.”

With Prize and Battlefield, you get exposed to something a little more raw, almost like a mix of Southern rock, pop and punk. The band also prefers to keep their songs short, driven by melody, and engaging without oversimplifying. Winning formula.

Don’t miss out on the Guns of Navarone CD release party, happening Saturday night at Lambert’s, 401 W. 2nd St. And this happens to be one of those fabulous triple bills with East Cameron Folkcore and The Dalles on the bill. Doors open at 10 p.m. Recommended.
- KUT


"Austin Music Minute"

Guns of Navarone have been described as alt.-country, and there is indeed a style similar to that ofUncle Tupelo or Old 97s. However, the local quartet, featuring songwriter and vocalist Cory Reinisch, guitarist Seth Grueneberg, bassist Dustin Meyer and drummer Richard Knox, brings a lot more to the table than that.

On Guns of Navarone’s new album, Prize and Battlefield, Reinisch admits you can hear the traditional folk and country sounds – and let’s not forget the guitar- and banjo-picking, especially the slide guitar, and a bit of a twang in there – but it’s not simply country. “I grew up in that soundscape and it naturally influences a lot of what I write,” Reinisch explains. “Dustin is very similar in that regard, whereas Seth and Richard grew up listening to punk and hardcore records. So when I bring an idea in, we sort of strip it back, then accentuate certain elements that we feel are important.”

With Prize and Battlefield, you get exposed to something a little more raw, almost like a mix of Southern rock, pop and punk. The band also prefers to keep their songs short, driven by melody, and engaging without oversimplifying. Winning formula.

Don’t miss out on the Guns of Navarone CD release party, happening Saturday night at Lambert’s, 401 W. 2nd St. And this happens to be one of those fabulous triple bills with East Cameron Folkcore and The Dalles on the bill. Doors open at 10 p.m. Recommended.
- KUT


"Side One/Track One Album Review"

I’m going to start this post off with a little secret; I have twang in my heart. Yes, I am rock’n’roll, (maybe even punk, on a good day) but I also have a soft spot for a little alt-country every now and then. Calexico tricked me into loving them with an Arcade Fire cover; Old 97’s crooned so sweetly that I couldn’t help wanting to tear down the "Buick City Complex" with them. So it would only make sense that local Americana band Guns of Navarone would also capture my heart. Recently, I got my hands on an advance of their upcoming album, Prize and Battlefield, and I’ve been really enjoying it.

The LP is fun, it’s interesting, it’s challenging, it’s both rock’n’roll and twangy. Sure, Guns of Navarone may have a traditional sound, but listen closer and just try to keep up with some of the directions that the guitar goes in - it’s delightful. One of the standout tracks is "I Bid You Farewell," which is actually one of most countrified songs on the album. You can hear a little Texas in the vocals, and the guitar sounds like someone has been listening to a lot of Johnny Cash. Prize and Battlefield is 10 tracks of the real deal - it will make you want to two-step and fist pump, simultaneously. This is the kind of music that makes me want to sit on a wide front porch, drink real root beer, and think about ex-boyfriends.

The album will be released on November 19th at a release show at Lambert’s with East Cameron Folklore. More information, as well as a stream of the album, can be found here.
- Side One/Track One


"Side One/Track One Album Review"

I’m going to start this post off with a little secret; I have twang in my heart. Yes, I am rock’n’roll, (maybe even punk, on a good day) but I also have a soft spot for a little alt-country every now and then. Calexico tricked me into loving them with an Arcade Fire cover; Old 97’s crooned so sweetly that I couldn’t help wanting to tear down the "Buick City Complex" with them. So it would only make sense that local Americana band Guns of Navarone would also capture my heart. Recently, I got my hands on an advance of their upcoming album, Prize and Battlefield, and I’ve been really enjoying it.

The LP is fun, it’s interesting, it’s challenging, it’s both rock’n’roll and twangy. Sure, Guns of Navarone may have a traditional sound, but listen closer and just try to keep up with some of the directions that the guitar goes in - it’s delightful. One of the standout tracks is "I Bid You Farewell," which is actually one of most countrified songs on the album. You can hear a little Texas in the vocals, and the guitar sounds like someone has been listening to a lot of Johnny Cash. Prize and Battlefield is 10 tracks of the real deal - it will make you want to two-step and fist pump, simultaneously. This is the kind of music that makes me want to sit on a wide front porch, drink real root beer, and think about ex-boyfriends.

The album will be released on November 19th at a release show at Lambert’s with East Cameron Folklore. More information, as well as a stream of the album, can be found here.
- Side One/Track One


"Album Review"

The debut full length by Guns of Navarone, Prize and Battlefield, is rock solid. They hangout in the same parking lots as The Old 97’s and American Aquarium. There is no reinvention of the wheel on Prize and Battlefield but what there is here is ten songs that are worthy of your attention.

Corey Reinisch is the primary songwriter and singer. His voice has just enough desperation to keep things interesting but he doesn’t tug so hard on his vocal chords that he sounds like he’s trying to sound like someone. From what I can gather, the band hasn’t been around all that long which makes the strength of this release all that more impressive.

As much as I like these ten songs I’m looking forward to the next batch even more. I hope Guns of Navarone play 150 shows in the next 18 months. I hope they drink a bit to much and make a bunch of mistakes and hit the studio with a dozen songs that came from these mistakes. I believe then the edge will be sharper and the desperation more vivid. I believe that if you look at them right, mistakes aren’t mistakes at all.

Buy this record. See the band when they come to your town.
- Nine Bullets (music blog)


"Album Review"

The debut full length by Guns of Navarone, Prize and Battlefield, is rock solid. They hangout in the same parking lots as The Old 97’s and American Aquarium. There is no reinvention of the wheel on Prize and Battlefield but what there is here is ten songs that are worthy of your attention.

Corey Reinisch is the primary songwriter and singer. His voice has just enough desperation to keep things interesting but he doesn’t tug so hard on his vocal chords that he sounds like he’s trying to sound like someone. From what I can gather, the band hasn’t been around all that long which makes the strength of this release all that more impressive.

As much as I like these ten songs I’m looking forward to the next batch even more. I hope Guns of Navarone play 150 shows in the next 18 months. I hope they drink a bit to much and make a bunch of mistakes and hit the studio with a dozen songs that came from these mistakes. I believe then the edge will be sharper and the desperation more vivid. I believe that if you look at them right, mistakes aren’t mistakes at all.

Buy this record. See the band when they come to your town.
- Nine Bullets (music blog)


"Top 20 Austin Songs of 2011"

For a town that built itself on rockin’ country, or country-rock, or however you want to call it, this list has been shockingly free of country-inflected music. Fortunately for us, Guns of Navarone put out new material this year. With some nice pedal steel tones, “I Am Taking You Tonight” appeals to the country-lover in all of us Austinites. What’s that? You don’t like country? That’s okay, this shit rocks hard. The lyrical themes are universal: “There’s nothing left to do / The only thing to do is self-destruct / Downtown, stumbling around / Trying to catch your eye” is how the track opens. Frontman Cory Reinisch is earnest and relatable as he tries to figure out his romantic life in front of a backdrop of some of the best country-rock in town. - OVRLD (music blog)


"Top 25 Austin Albums of 2011"

Guns of Navarone aren’t as interested in crafting elaborate soundscapes as they are with writing damn good country-rock songs. We’ve already elaborated on the fantastic “I Am Taking You Tonight” in our best songs of the year list but that’s only one of the gems here. There’s the rollicking “Winnipeg, Manitoba” (with it’s chorus about being “cold up there”), the bittersweet “Don’t Shoot the Messenger,” and the pleading “Gatsby Did It All for a Girl.” With the sweet guitar leads and Cory Reinisch’s effecting vocals, this is the kind of songwriting that feels directly tied to Austin’s influences, as much at home at Threadgill’s as on Red River. If you like the Old 97's or the Jayhawks, this album is an absolute must for you to check out. - OVRLD (music blog)


"Top 25 Austin Albums of 2011"

Guns of Navarone aren’t as interested in crafting elaborate soundscapes as they are with writing damn good country-rock songs. We’ve already elaborated on the fantastic “I Am Taking You Tonight” in our best songs of the year list but that’s only one of the gems here. There’s the rollicking “Winnipeg, Manitoba” (with it’s chorus about being “cold up there”), the bittersweet “Don’t Shoot the Messenger,” and the pleading “Gatsby Did It All for a Girl.” With the sweet guitar leads and Cory Reinisch’s effecting vocals, this is the kind of songwriting that feels directly tied to Austin’s influences, as much at home at Threadgill’s as on Red River. If you like the Old 97's or the Jayhawks, this album is an absolute must for you to check out. - OVRLD (music blog)


"Good Music Club Show Preview"

Alternative country/Americana/folk band, Guns of Navarone is the impeccable balance of the three genres. The quartet recently released their first full-length album, Prize & Battlefield, after working closely for perfection with Michael Landon and Chris James at Premium Studios. Their tracks are coated with the rich, Southern voice of vocalist Cory Reinisch, which is beautifully supported by guitars, bass and drums. With their style and lyrics, Guns of Navarone induces an unbearable craving for the summertime, the scent of grass on humid mornings and that kind of love you really want despite knowing it will hurt. In a nutshell, Guns of Navarone is what’s good about The South. - Red River Noise


"Album Review"

Something a little different today. From my inbox, I dedicate this to my new friend Seth. It’s little bit alt-country and a lot Americana. It’s not normally the sound I post, but I’ve been compelled by this little known Austin band, who just played at SXSW (by the way), to show some love. Harmonies, harmonicas and great energy; before you know it you’ll be tapping your toes, and looking to download the rest of the record.

This is The Guns of Navarone, singing Put it to Rest off their debut album Prize and Battlefield.

“You whistle like you know the song… but you don’t.” - Put it to Rest (Guns of Navarone)
- Louder She Said (music blog)


"Album Review"

Something a little different today. From my inbox, I dedicate this to my new friend Seth. It’s little bit alt-country and a lot Americana. It’s not normally the sound I post, but I’ve been compelled by this little known Austin band, who just played at SXSW (by the way), to show some love. Harmonies, harmonicas and great energy; before you know it you’ll be tapping your toes, and looking to download the rest of the record.

This is The Guns of Navarone, singing Put it to Rest off their debut album Prize and Battlefield.

“You whistle like you know the song… but you don’t.” - Put it to Rest (Guns of Navarone)
- Louder She Said (music blog)


"Single Review"

One of the fads of the last decade or so has been alt-coutnry, and with so many bands out there, it’s been hard to really find that one great alt band that wins everyone over. Fortunately for us, and you, Austin band Guns of Navarone have crafted an exceptional record full of well-written tunes in the vein of alt-country. Prize and Battlefield is the name of the record, and they’ve just tossed out another great single that exemplifies the band’s sound. It’s a bit of that country feel, but there’s hints of underlying pop, as well as a gruffness that accompanies the vocals. Now’s your chance to join us in our praise for one of Austin’s great bands. - Austin Town Hall


"Top 15 Texas Albums of 2011"

This band is one of the few local alt-country groups that create extremely well composed creative songs. Sometimes the genre is just watered down in Texas and it’s nice to find a group that can combine traditional elements of country and blend it nicely with rockabilly and country-punk. Lead vocalist Cory Reinisch crafts superb story telling songs and provides a voice intended for nothing but country music. - Austin Town Hall


"Good Music Club"

Time for some more incredible musical discoveries, courtesy of your pals at The Good Music Club! The GMC a locally-produced live music event and an online video series highlighting some of Austin’s best bands and solo artists making an impact on the local music scene. This week’s installment features Guns of Navarone.

The band’s been described as alt.-country, with a style similar to that of Uncle Tupelo or Old 97s. However, this local quartet, featuring songwriter and vocalist Cory Reinisch, guitarist Seth Grueneberg, bassist Dustin Meyer and drummer Richard Knox, brings a lot more to the table than that. On their album Prize and Battlefield (2011), you hear the traditional folk and country – the guitar, banjo-picking, and essential slide guitar – but it’s not simply roots music. The sound is a little more raw, almost like a mix of Southern rock, pop and punk. The band also prefers to keep their songs short, driven by melody, and engaging without oversimplifying, as you’ll see in these great clips of their performances.

We’re already preparing for the next taping of The Good Music Club, scheduled for April 30 at The ND, located at 5th and Brushy, very close to Progress Coffee. We’re confirming the list of bands performing – details coming soon. Stay tuned! - KUT and Good Music Club


"Good Music Club"

Time for some more incredible musical discoveries, courtesy of your pals at The Good Music Club! The GMC a locally-produced live music event and an online video series highlighting some of Austin’s best bands and solo artists making an impact on the local music scene. This week’s installment features Guns of Navarone.

The band’s been described as alt.-country, with a style similar to that of Uncle Tupelo or Old 97s. However, this local quartet, featuring songwriter and vocalist Cory Reinisch, guitarist Seth Grueneberg, bassist Dustin Meyer and drummer Richard Knox, brings a lot more to the table than that. On their album Prize and Battlefield (2011), you hear the traditional folk and country – the guitar, banjo-picking, and essential slide guitar – but it’s not simply roots music. The sound is a little more raw, almost like a mix of Southern rock, pop and punk. The band also prefers to keep their songs short, driven by melody, and engaging without oversimplifying, as you’ll see in these great clips of their performances.

We’re already preparing for the next taping of The Good Music Club, scheduled for April 30 at The ND, located at 5th and Brushy, very close to Progress Coffee. We’re confirming the list of bands performing – details coming soon. Stay tuned! - KUT and Good Music Club


"KUT Song of the Day"

The Guns of Navarone is a 1961 WWII adventure flick starring David Niven and Gregory Peck. Guns of Navarone is the name of one of a four-piece alt country outfit that’s one of Austin’s best up-and-coming bands.

Guns of Navarone formed in the spring of 2009. The band released a three-song EP shortly thereafter. This past November, the band released its debut long-player Prize and Battlefield. The obvious comparison is to classic Old 97s. Frontman and songwriter Cory Reinisch’s country-flecked tunes (and vocals) recall Rhett Miller on his better days. But there’s something more fresh in Guns of Navarone’s delivery. There’s a punked-up energy and honesty that’s more in line with a Texas-flavored version of New Jersey heartland-punk band Gaslight Anthem.

Comparisons aside, it’s obvious that Guns of Navarone are on to something. The songs on Prize and Battlefield are proof of that. From the fist-raising back half of “The Clevor Men of Manor Farm” to today’s song of the day “Winnipeg, Manitoba,” the band is forging a sound that’s familiar, but also something that’s all their own. You can hear for yourself tonight when Guns of Navarone play a Free Week show at the Mohawk. - KUT


"Live in Studio 1A"

Austin locals Guns of Navarone take their “Austin locals” label very seriously. They’ve got a sound blend that’s distinctly Austin – it’s an alt-country/pop rock sound that is a fantastic blend of old and new Austin music. Easily comparable to something like classic Old 97s, they’ve also got a sort of punk energy that keeps their sound fresh. Having formed in the spring of 2009, the group released a three track EP and quickly became a favorite in town. They released their first full-length album in November last year to positive reviews across the board. Check out Guns of Navarone’s live performance from their visit to the shiny new Studio 1a. - KUT


"Guns of Navarone Album Review - Prize and Battlefield"

A decade before the term alt.country was coined in the Nineties, one roots-rock revival featured guitar bands like the Long Ryders, Rank & File, and Green on Red. The members of Guns of Navarone probably weren't even born at that musical juncture, but Prize and Battlefield, the local quartet's debut, would fit neatly in a scene that took much influence from Gram Parsons' rock-and-country hybrid played with indie rock attitude. Guns of Navarone's chiming guitars, chugging rhythms, and sparkling harmonies suggest a more contemporary comparison to the Old 97's, yet it also isolates the occasional goth flourish, like the ending of "Gatsby Did It All for a Girl" and a Southwestern sweep created by the guest pedal steel of Kim Deschamps on "Born Bloody." Well-crafted hooks and muscular ensemble play make Prize and Battlefield an imposing initial effort.
- The Austin Chronicle


"Best of 2012 (so far)"

Here’s a mix of favorite songs from albums released thus far in 2012. Per usual it’s been a good year for roots music from both old and new names. Newcomers JD McPherson, Crooks, Guns of Navarone, and John Fullbright lead the way, but geezers Loudon Wainwright, Beaver Nelson, Marty Stuart, and Chuck Prophet show there’s lots of life in them old bones yet.

I found the Illinois-based Giving Tree Band thanks to the Dead Covers Project, a competition of sorts where acts show off their best Grateful Dead interpretation.

Then there's San Antonio’s Hacienda, who some say sound too much like producer Dan Auerbach's main gig, the Black Keys. I think they sound a lot younger and fresher than that. On the veteran end, the Hobart Brothers with Lil’ Sis Hobart are the unlikely trio of Jon Dee Graham, Freedy Johnston, and Susan Cowsill.

Finally, if you haven’t heard Jason Eady’s AM Country Heaven, you’ve missed one of the purest country albums this year.

RIP Levon Helm and Davy Jones. Welcome back KOKE-FM and dB’s. The first six months have been rewarding. With upcoming releases from Uncle Lucius, the Trishas, Aimee Mann, Patterson Hood, and Caroline Herring, the rest of the year should be just as interesting. - The Austin Chronicle


"Austin Town Hall Free Music Sampler"

Happy Monday kids! We are pleased to be sharing a free 3 song sampler of music with you today featuring three bands playing together this Friday at Threadgill’s south. The show and sampler highlight some of Austin’s best up and coming talents with Crooks, Guns of Navarone, and Whitman all on the bill. You can download the sampler right now for free over on our recently created bandcamp page. All songs are previously unreleased or appear on upcoming records from each band. We’ll throw in a little preview of the sampler with new and unreleased track “I Bid You Farewell” from alt-country boys Guns of Navarone. We’ll also bring you a friendly reminder about this show later in the week, but until then, check out some info. on the Threadgill’s site. $5 only. - www.austintownhall.com


"Austin Town Hall Free Music Sampler"

Happy Monday kids! We are pleased to be sharing a free 3 song sampler of music with you today featuring three bands playing together this Friday at Threadgill’s south. The show and sampler highlight some of Austin’s best up and coming talents with Crooks, Guns of Navarone, and Whitman all on the bill. You can download the sampler right now for free over on our recently created bandcamp page. All songs are previously unreleased or appear on upcoming records from each band. We’ll throw in a little preview of the sampler with new and unreleased track “I Bid You Farewell” from alt-country boys Guns of Navarone. We’ll also bring you a friendly reminder about this show later in the week, but until then, check out some info. on the Threadgill’s site. $5 only. - www.austintownhall.com


"Threadgills Show Preview"

After a pretty electro-heavy week so far here at OVRLD, we’re shifting gears with Guns of Navarone. There’s not a keyboard or synthesizer to be found anywhere in this group’s output; instead, they rely on good old drums, bass and guitars to produce their catchy take on country-rock. If you’re a fan of the Old 97's, then every one of the three songs on Guns of Navarone’s Singles EP is worth checking out. For example, here’s “I Am Taking You Tonight”: (song stream)

Guns of Navarone aren’t radically reinventing the country-rock genre, but they hit all the right notes. The lyrical themes – jealously, loneliness, drunkenness – are also pitch perfect for the music. My suggestion is to go see lead singer Cory Reinisch on Friday at Thunderbird Coffee, or the full band at Threadgill’s on July 15th and bug them to tell you when the new material is due to arrive. In the meantime you can stream the whole EP here. - www.ovrld.com


"Austin Music Minute"

Once again, I, your Austin Music Minute maven Laurie Gallardo, found another one of those triple bills that I’m constantly seeking out. And I’m delighted to note that this particular bill is a good mix of different styles.

Here’s what’s coming up Friday night at Threadgill’s World Headquarters:

Headlining is one of my all-time local favorites, Austin quartet Crooks. This is what I refer to as country with an edge – nice and rough and staring you straight in the eye, very much a tip of the hat to the early years of country-western music that you did your drinkin’ to. The guys have been hard at work on a new album with producer Danny Reisch (word is that Flaco Jiménez will be making a guest appearance on one of the tracks), and they’re scheduled to perform at Fun Fun Fun Fest next month.

Indie rock quartet Whitman is also on the bill. Tight on the rhythm, loads of guitar and plentiful catchy melodies – and they like to keep it loud. Whitman is also busily working on a new album, due for release in the spring, and recently added new bassist Micajah Nye.

Local quartet Guns of Navarone delivers Americana with a rock ‘n’ roll flourish, lead by songwriter Cory Reinisch. The guys just completed production on their upcoming album, Prize and Battlefield, set for release November.

See all three bands at their show Friday night, 9 p.m., at Threadgill’s, 301 W. Riverside Dr. Triple the goodness. This one comes recommended. - KUT


"Guns of Navarone on Good Day LIVE (My Fox Austin)"

Live Music: Guns of Navarone
Updated: Friday, 10 Sep 2010, 9:29 AM CDT
Published : Friday, 10 Sep 2010, 9:29 AM CDT

Austin, TX - Austin-based band Guns of Navarone stopped by Good Day to perform. They will be playing at Stubb's Friday night. - My Fox Austin


"Guns of Navarone on Good Day LIVE (My Fox Austin)"

Live Music: Guns of Navarone
Updated: Friday, 10 Sep 2010, 9:29 AM CDT
Published : Friday, 10 Sep 2010, 9:29 AM CDT

Austin, TX - Austin-based band Guns of Navarone stopped by Good Day to perform. They will be playing at Stubb's Friday night. - My Fox Austin


"Demo Sweat (EP reviews)"

Being overpopulated with musicians doesn't make Austin a bad place to launch a band. You just have to be all the more confident that you're better at what you do than most else doing it. That goes double if you're country-rock/"red dirt"/Texas music. Guns of Navarone are that good. Their EP has three songs on it, and after one listen I knew the chorus hook to each by heart. The lead vocals are original and friendly, the harmonies are terrific, and the lead guitar parts are vital and thoughtfully composed to flatter the singing. "Winnipeg, Manitoba" has their best chorus and not-obvious structure, helped along by a rhythm section that knows how to build the intensity within each change. - Big Western Flavor


"Demo Sweat (EP reviews)"

Being overpopulated with musicians doesn't make Austin a bad place to launch a band. You just have to be all the more confident that you're better at what you do than most else doing it. That goes double if you're country-rock/"red dirt"/Texas music. Guns of Navarone are that good. Their EP has three songs on it, and after one listen I knew the chorus hook to each by heart. The lead vocals are original and friendly, the harmonies are terrific, and the lead guitar parts are vital and thoughtfully composed to flatter the singing. "Winnipeg, Manitoba" has their best chorus and not-obvious structure, helped along by a rhythm section that knows how to build the intensity within each change. - Big Western Flavor


"Artist To Watch: Guns of Navarone"

It’s that time yet again! Time for your friends at Austin Town Hall to start hyping some local bands that deserve a little praise. We’ll keep the hype machine going this week with a short feature on Austin band Guns of Navarone. We were first exposed to this quartet last Saturday night when they opened up at Stubbs for our friends Whitman. Upon first listen, the band came across as a dirtier version of Old 97s with a super tight rhythm section provided by bassist Dustin Meyer and drummer Richard Knox. Mix that in with some country picked guitar from Seth Gruenberg and a perfect southern voice from Cory Reinisch, and you’ve got the Guns of Navarone sound. The songs are quite obviously labeled as “alt-country” which makes it easy to compare their sound to early tunes from Uncle Tupelo or the aforementioned Old 97s. Either way, their simple approach to songwriting and fast paced punk-country is a welcome refresher to the often times watered down indie scene full of “weird” and “complex” bands. Guns of Navarone currently have their debut EP up for download on their Band Camp site while they prep their debut LP for release later this summer. Give ‘em a shot. You can also check out more of their upcoming tour dates over on myspace. - Austin Town Hall


"Artist To Watch: Guns of Navarone"

It’s that time yet again! Time for your friends at Austin Town Hall to start hyping some local bands that deserve a little praise. We’ll keep the hype machine going this week with a short feature on Austin band Guns of Navarone. We were first exposed to this quartet last Saturday night when they opened up at Stubbs for our friends Whitman. Upon first listen, the band came across as a dirtier version of Old 97s with a super tight rhythm section provided by bassist Dustin Meyer and drummer Richard Knox. Mix that in with some country picked guitar from Seth Gruenberg and a perfect southern voice from Cory Reinisch, and you’ve got the Guns of Navarone sound. The songs are quite obviously labeled as “alt-country” which makes it easy to compare their sound to early tunes from Uncle Tupelo or the aforementioned Old 97s. Either way, their simple approach to songwriting and fast paced punk-country is a welcome refresher to the often times watered down indie scene full of “weird” and “complex” bands. Guns of Navarone currently have their debut EP up for download on their Band Camp site while they prep their debut LP for release later this summer. Give ‘em a shot. You can also check out more of their upcoming tour dates over on myspace. - Austin Town Hall


"We Are a New Band"

We're still waiting for our first "press" review, but so far the word on the street has been encouraging to say the least. Plus, no one has thrown tomotoes at us or threatened our lives, or the lives of our loved ones. That's gotta say something. - Anybody and Everybody


"We Are a New Band"

We're still waiting for our first "press" review, but so far the word on the street has been encouraging to say the least. Plus, no one has thrown tomotoes at us or threatened our lives, or the lives of our loved ones. That's gotta say something. - Anybody and Everybody


Discography

SINGLES (EP) - 2010
Recorded and mixed at Test Tube Audio by Kevin Butler
Mastering by Saff Mastering

PRIZE AND BATTLEFIELD (LP) - 2011
Recorded and mixed at Premium Recording by Michael Landon and Chris James
Mastering by Saff Mastering

"I Am Taking You Tonight"
"Winnipeg, Manitoba"
"Resonate"
- all playing on rotation at KUT (currently), and also playing on KVRX

Guns of Navarone songs can also be streamed live via the band’s website, Spotify, Bandcamp, ReverbNation, Myspace, iTunes, and Amazon.com pages:

www.gonavarone.com
http://gunsofnavarone.bandcamp.com/
www.myspace.com/gunsofnavaroneband

Photos

Bio

Guns of Navarone is a band of old souls at first listen, and they play songs about frustration and paranoia, arrogance and pride, the heartbroken and lustful, youth and it's ever-diminishing presence. Starting as a band in the summer of 2009, they have been playing steadily ever since. They've covered Austin and the surrounding areas, playing venues on Red River, the East Side, downtown, and have ventured to other major cities in Texas. They played SXSW 2012, SXSW 2013, appeared on the second episode of the Good Music Club, have been featured prominently on KUT and KVRX, and have played featured shows and music series for KUT, KGSR, 101X, and KVRX.

Guns of Navarone are creating a sound that is largely representative of Austin itself, and they're working hard to build on that momentum and that ideal. If you listen close enough, you'll probably hear splinters of Uncle Tupelo, Old 97's, The Replacements, Whiskeytown, Lucero, and Wilco. Melody drives their songs, and country bravado gives them their swagger. They are young men embracing the pleasantries and difficulties of the journey towards becoming old men, and how one might make some sort of sense out of that process.

They are currently in the studio working on their second full-length album, set to be released in the Fall of 2013.