www.ashleighflynnandtheriveters.com
Twelve years is a long time between dipping into an artist's work. Maybe it was fate for Ashleigh Flynn to cross the path again after an album in 2013. Not that either of us have been inactive, just operating in parallel universes. In 2025 the name has been extended to Ashleigh Flynn & the Riveters with the sound straddling a beam splitting boisterous bar music and moments to soothe the soul. The prime feeling to GOOD MORNING, SUNSHINE is rock 'n' roll held together by adhesive twang. Flynn stylishly leads her all-female band primarily on a string of uptempo numbers inviting all on a speedily rhythmic journey. The pace is punctuated with revitalising fuel stops as we all need time to savour life's finer moments.
Eleven tracks form the rump of this West Coast release led off by the infectiously charming 'Drunk in Ojai', primed with hooks to shine in that all-important opening slot to keep listeners engaged. Following the classy title track second up, the rollicking and absorbing 'Deep River Hollow' is an early contender for stand-out moment. We are now feeling the effect of the Riveters in full flow. Further down the line, the traditional feeling 'Little Red Wing' makes a sterling challenge for the top slot. You can't go wrong with a memorable chorus to use as a singalong. A lasting impact is that the Riveters would be great live. Lucky souls on the West Coast.
A couple of slower tunes strategically slot in. The addition of steel draws the ears towards 'Love is an Ember', while as we turn the corner 'Much Too Proud' eases the throttle juxtaposing the album's general trend. A chink of country light shines on story song 'Tilly Jane Ridge' with an attractive tune underpinning the piece. Fits of fiddle, blasts of harmonica and plenty of guitar are always welcome in a roots leaning album and 'Eye of the Light' features all three.
The finale is more solid than spectacular. 'Shake the Stranger' sees the album nicely in its groove. The penultimate track 'Bird in a Cage' bolsters the West Coast rock feel before paving the way for feel good closer 'Don't Leave Me Lonesome' to exit in fine style. Thus ending a thirty-seven minute engagement on a positive footing.
On GOOD MORNING, SUNSHINE Ashleigh Flynn & the Riveters unveils a maturely elegant sound without losing a glint of unabated youth. Resolute roots are displayed throughout alongside a trait to connect. Maybe the gap of connection won't be a dozen years next time.
