New Release: Jay Gonzalez vs Sloan Brothers (Split EP)

Yes, music fans, splits are still a thing. And the pop magic performed here will surely keep your toes tapping. Jay Gonzalez, the Drive-By Truckers secret multi-instrumental weapon teamed up with fellow Athenian R. Sloan Simpson (a.k.a. Sloan Brothers) for a 4-track gem. Side A kicks off with Gonzalez on “Spit Out The Bubblegum,” with the sweet, sweet sound lasting considerably longer than the gum. And yeah, you’re gonna get some cavities listening to this. Gonzalez is at the helm, providing vocals, guitars, bass, keys, and drums.

Neither artist shies away from a good collaboration. Gonzalez released Roll Up a Song with Pete Smith in 2023, just after his addictive Back to the Hive in 2021. Sloan released a split with Obligatory Refractions (actually, another of his own projects). Both releases were distributed via Atlanta’s Chunklet Industries.

Sloan rushes in next with “Off The Record,” a sad but refreshing breakup song of a man accepting reality. “I know you only call me up ’cause there’s no one else around / I know if someone asked you out, you wouldn’t turn him down.” This one-man band handles it all: guitars, bass, synths, electric piano, drum programming, and vocals. It’s a beauty of a tune.

He grabs the first slot on Side B with “In For Love.” The singer now fighting to stay together, sped up heart rate and speedier beats per minute in tow. To add to the allure is a Hawkesian synth propelling the song like an EKG monitor transmitting electrical signals straight to your ears.

Gonzalez reserves the closer on Side B with “Strong One,” another sweet love song. “And don’t you know, I realize that everything we have is ’cause of you / And I’ll do everything I can to try and be a worthy man of you,” then drifting into a Beatleesque “Oh, oh, oh.” Pecking away at what sounds like a kid’s xylophone, Gonzalez has simplified a well-written tune into an ode to his bride, we’re assuming (raise your hand if you married up, too). With Jeff Griggs jumping in on drums and backing vocals, this one’s a keeper.

The digital release is available on Bandcamp for only two bucks (worth much more). Sadly, only 75 physical copies were printed and those are long gone. And we really missed out because the bubblegum was included (sold separately).

For more information on these two friends, click on Jay Gonzalez and Sloan Brothers.

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