Album Review: Bear Bryant The Gridiron King by Calhoun County Band
Released under B And G Records, Bear Bryant The Gridiron King is an intriguing blend of Folk, World, Country, and Pop with a dash of novelty that makes it stand out. Produced by Mike Puryear and engineered by Ronnie Light, this album feels like a quirky love letter to American culture—specifically, its football obsession. Hailing from the US, the Calhoun County Band crafts a soundscape that’s as much storytelling as it is music.
The titular track, “Bear Bryant, The Gridiron King,” grabs your attention right off the bat. It's hard not to chuckle at the sheer audacity of turning legendary coach Paul "Bear" Bryant into a folk hero through song. The tune has this toe-tapping rhythm that sneaks up on you, paired with lyrics so vivid they practically paint pictures in your mind. You can almost hear the stadium roaring in the background while the band belts out lines about grit, glory, and gridirons. It’s catchy but also oddly educational—if you didn’t know who Bear Bryant was before, you’ll walk away feeling like you’ve earned a history degree.
Another standout is the second track (let’s call it Track Two for now since details are sparse). This one leans more into the country-pop vibe, with twangy guitars and harmonies smoother than butter on a biscuit. What sticks with me here isn’t just the melody—it’s how effortlessly the band balances humor with heart. There’s something earnest beneath all the playful nods to Southern charm and small-town pride. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to roll down your car windows and belt it out, even if you’re five states away from Dixie.
One thing worth noting is the production quality. Ronnie Light clearly knew what he was doing behind the board; every instrument sits perfectly in the mix without overshadowing the vocals. Meanwhile, Mike Puryear’s touch as producer adds a layer of polish that keeps things professional yet approachable—a tricky balance in genres like these.
Now, let’s be real: this album won’t appeal to everyone. If you’re looking for deep emotional ballads or cutting-edge experimental sounds, you might find yourself scratching your head. But there’s undeniable charm in the way the Calhoun County Band embraces their niche. They don’t take themselves too seriously, and frankly, neither should we.
In the end, listening to Bear Bryant The Gridiron King feels like flipping through an old photo album filled with sepia-toned memories—you may not have lived them yourself, but you can’t help but smile anyway. Who would’ve thought a tribute to a football coach could feel so alive? Maybe next time they'll write a song about baseball... or maybe cheeseburgers. Either way, count me in.
