Parker Barrow might hail from Nashville, but they live on the rock ’n’ roll end of the street. Even so, that Outlaw spirit remains stitched into their DNA — fitting, really, when their name is borrowed from Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow, the infamous bank-robbing duo of the Depression era. That mix of grit, romance and rebellion fuels “Hold The Mash.”
The EP opens with “Make It,” a track that distils rock ’n’ roll into something sharp and vintage. Even the artwork carries that throwback spirit. Megan Kane’s voice is something special — sassy, commanding, and the kind of tone that could’ve landed in any decade. There’s sheer joy in the guitar lines, and the real-life chemistry between Kane and drummer Dylan Turner (the pair are married) crackles throughout.
“Glass Eyes Crying” brings groove and a touch of soul, especially in the backing vocals. The band have called this a new side of themselves, and you can hear why: there’s a depth and looseness here that suits them.
“Novocaine” cheerfully dances onto the back porch, but beneath the bounce is real firepower. “Feel like letting go,” Kane sings — though it’s clear she won’t. “Can’t feel a thing,” she claims, even as the track drips with emotion, bluesy at its core and delivered with warmth.
Things strip back beautifully on “Olivia Lane,” the organ work simply gorgeous, giving the whole song a glowing, late-night feel.
And closing track “The Healer” stands as a statement: a celebration of the restorative power of rock ’n’ roll, and perhaps of the band themselves stepping into something new.
It may only be an EP, but “Hold The Mash” feels unmistakably like a fresh start for Parker Barrow. Raise a toast — it’s brilliant.
Rating: 9/10
