Goner has turned out some great records in recent years. At times it seems that they almost eclipse all the other music going on in Memphis. I really enjoy listening to Jack O’s new record, the Limes re-release, Harlan, and the Flaming A’s.
However, the local bands that have had the biggest influence on me were the hardcore bands I listened to in high school. His Hero is Gone, Cop Out, FMD, Pistol Whipped and many others have had a tremendous impact on the music that I play now, but there is one band that I couldn’t get enough of back then and still can’t get enough of today, ADIOS GRINGO!!!
Adios Gringo has one of the best rhythm sections I have ever heard in my life. It is impossible to not immediately realize that Robert is an incredible drummer when you see them live. He’s like animal from the Muppets but more insane. He is one of those rare drummers that has a sound like no one else.
Complementing Robert’s drums is Todd on bass. This guy does bass runs like I’ve never heard anyone play before. I was hanging out at his house one night a long time ago shooting pool and talking bass, and he pulls out this book of bass scales. Only this is the necronomicon of bass scales. Hearing him play, it is obvious he’s spent a lot of time studying this book and honing in his craft.
Paul’s guitar and vocals complete the package. He plays a lot of rhythms that seem to loop back on themselves as well as heavier rhythms that you can pound your fist in the air to. His leads can go from chaotic awesomeness to metal perfection. He also sings with a southern accent but doesn’t speak with one. I still haven’t figured that one out.
I’ve been listening to this band almost as long as I’ve been listening to music. They’ve evolved and changed over the years. Back in the day their music seemed to be more droning and deep. Today they sound more polished and intense. This might have to do with improvements in their equipment, and that I’m not listening to their cassette on my boom box. And the thing I love most is they will still play Tennessee Tornado upon request.
Ryan (Ryno) Hanson is a native Memphian, avid Tigers fan, and currently plays bass in the Bombay Alleys and the Collected Works. He has played in numerous local bands over the years including the Antique Curtains, Straight to Hell, and Carpe Diem.
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