Devon Allman and Donavon Frankenreiter: Rollers Review
Devon Allman has exemplified the All-American archetype that you want represented in the music industry. It’s been six years since the release of Devon’s previous solo album, Ride or Die, which deservedly earned #1 on blues charts and won awards. In recent years, Devon has been spending his time with the Allman Betts Band. Unsurprisingly, Devon once again surpasses all expectations in just 20 sweet minutes with six songs.
Rollers is a collaborative album with Donavon Frankenreiter, a southern California native who grew up as a professional surfer but found passion in being a musician. Donavon has worked closely with many musicians over the years, ultimately creating his own label and producing several solo records. Combining Donavon’s soulful surf rock with Devon’s southern rock blues created a soulful album deeply embedded in Americana roots that ignite a nostalgic atmosphere.
Rollers was recorded under Create Records, Devon’s own label. Together Devon and Donavon ambitiously made plans to set a new world record by playing in all 50 states in just 49 days, justly titled the See It All American Tour. To celebrate this fete, the vastly talented musicians released a single of a similar name on their newest album, which released June 23, 2023.
Each song on the album has a defined beginning and end, providing a unique sound to each track unlike the previous one. Rollers starts with a traditional cowboy timbre with deep, gruff vocals aptly titled “Calling All You Riders.” The second song provides an uplifting and motivational feel. “See It All” preaches about the satisfaction that hard work brings when your dreams are accomplished once you have seen it all, which is exactly what the band is doing this tour. Maggie Rose gives the perfect addition, providing a 1970s country pop energy to the album with the song “We Belong.” The fourth song on the album, “Electric Lady,” is a softer ballad showing vulnerability, which I personally appreciate and find inspiring in a world where men are oftentimes shamed for sharing their emotions. “Where Ya Gonna Run To” kicks the listener into a harder vibe resembling that of Lenny Kravitz. It’s a fast paced song that instantaneously makes one sport the stank bass face. Finalizing the EP with a lyricless song that immediately soothes the soul, “Acapulco Gold” is the perfect inclusion to your Kick Ass And Take Names playlist.
Rollers is an album intensely embedded in rock and roll. The versatile style gives a well rounded piquant American sound to the listener. The brief yet perfunctory dulcet is a memorable summer soundtrack. Fundamentally euphonious, Rollers is absolutely not to be missed.
The Review: 8/10
Can’t Miss Tracks
– Calling All You Riders
– See It All
– Acapulco Gold
– Where Ya Gonna Run To
The Big Hit
– Where Ya Gonna Run To
