Andy Gabbard takes a diversion into country rock

Since 2015, Andy Gabbard has devoted his time away from Buffalo Killers on his own brand of intoxicatingly melodic indie rock. After “Fluff” (2015), “Plenum Castle” (2017), “Family Pet” (2018) and “Strawberry Tapes” (2018), the Dayton-based musician changed courses with the new country rock album, “Cedar City Sweetheart.”

Gabbard has also assembled a new band for the release show at Yellow Cab Tavern in Dayton on Friday, April 19. The group, dubbed the Cool Ranchers, features his Buffalo Killers mates Sven Kahns (pedal steel) and Joey Sebaali (drums) with David Fowler (bass) and M. Ross Perkins (keyboards).

Gabbard recently discussed his tasteful diversion into country rock.

Q: What prompted this latest batch of country songs?

A: I watched the most recent Farm Aid at my mom and dad's house and, to each his own, but with the exception of a good handful of people, the groups were just so bad. I honestly felt I could do it better. I love country music so much and my mother loves country music. She has been begging me to make a country album for years so it's really for my mom, but I honestly do love those country albums by the Byrds.

Q: What made this the right time?

A: If I'm doing this stuff on my own, I'm going to keep doing what I want. I listen to country music all the time and I've had all the tracks recorded. Then I had Sven from Buffalo Killers play pedal steel. We did a thing where he sent me individual tracks and we built it from there.

Q: How did that work out?

A: Sven took his time but the stuff he sent me back was great. When you're recording a country album that doesn't have any pedal steel in it, you question it at times. But, when you get it back with the steel on it, it's like, 'Oh, my God, dude!' It's an awesome instrument. It just sounds so good.

Q: You’ve remained very prolific. What drives you to push forward with music?

A: It would be cool if I sold a lot of records but that's not my motivation. I mostly do it for my friends and acquaintances in Dayton. People want to give me advice like, 'You should save up and do this,' but I just don't care, man. Having to put a lot of money into being successful is overwhelming. I believe in myself as a songwriter and stuff but I don't believe in myself enough to where I want to spend money to play rock star or something. Who cares?


HOW TO GO

What: Andy Gabbard & the Cool Ranchers

When: 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Friday, April 19

Where: Yellow Cab Tavern, 700 E. 4th St., Dayton

More info: www.yellowcabtavern.com

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