Once upon a Christmas morning back when I was in grade school, an older brother gave me a seven-inch single of The Hollies’ “Stop Stop Stop.” It launched a life-long tradition of requesting a rock and roll gift for the holiday. Early examples included Stephen Stills’ first solo album and the Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band LP. This continued over the years, even if I have to buy my own presents and put them under the tree. This year, I’m giving me the Relentless album by The Pretenders, and U2’s “Atomic” single in CD and colored vinyl formats.
Australian rocker Joe Algeri understands the significance of offering a musical gift at this time of year. He and his international merry helpers, operating under the band name The JAC, have been releasing a free holiday single for 23 years via his Egomaniac Bandcamp page. The songs aren’t always joyous or even seasonal, but they’re definitely fun. In fact, this year’s rollicking edition, “Me And My Machine,” would work just as well in July as it does in December.
Thanks to modern technology, The Jac features lead vocalist-guitarist Algeri playing with bassist-backing vocalist Herb Eimerman and sax player George Matoian from America; drummer Stefan Johanson and guitarist Las Brusell from Sweden; and lead guitarist-backing vocalist Andy J. Prinkkila from Finland. Together, they crank out a vintage rock song celebrating the joys of cruising with your date in an awesome sports car.
The adventure kicks off at a hot dog stand, with Algeri searching for a companion to run away from it all with him. Describing himself as “some punk who's nuts and bolts,” Algeri explains, “I’m not digging this place, I only dig you.” Matoian’s exuberant blast of saxophone fits perfectly with the catchy, energetic guitars and drums arrangement, making this a fine gift and a fun ride for any season. Some day, I’ll have to introduce Joe Algeri to my older brother.
“Me And My Machine” is currently available as a free download on the Egomaniac Music Bandcamp page.
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