Album Review: Touch And Go by Mr White & Embers
Released in 2018 under the label Rock Action, Touch And Go by Mr White & Embers is a raw and punchy dive into garage rock that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly unpolished. Hailing from France, the duo channels a gritty energy that’s hard to ignore, blending crunchy riffs with an untamed spirit. This isn’t your polished, overproduced rock—it’s real, dirty, and alive.
One standout track is "Speed Stone Rock & Roller." The song kicks off like a runaway train, fueled by relentless guitar work and pounding drums. It’s impossible not to picture yourself cruising down some dusty highway with this one blasting through the speakers. There’s something magnetic about how chaotic yet controlled it feels—like they’re teetering on the edge but never falling off. The lyrics? Simple enough, but who needs complexity when the groove hits this hard?
Another gem is "Hands Full Of Sea / Eyes Full Of Sun." If you’ve ever felt torn between longing and freedom, this track nails it without saying too much. The melodies drift like ocean waves while still packing a punchy rhythm section underneath. What sticks with me most is the way the vocals seem almost whispered at times, as if sharing secrets meant only for those willing to listen closely. It’s hauntingly beautiful in its understated vibe.
While other tracks like "Bye Bye Child Eyes" and "Sligeach" hold their own charm, these two songs are the ones I find myself returning to again and again. Maybe it’s because they capture different sides of what makes Touch And Go so compelling—a mix of reckless abandon and quiet introspection.
Reflecting on this album, it’s clear Mr White & Embers aren’t trying to reinvent the wheel here. Instead, they remind us why garage rock has always had a place in our hearts. It’s messy, loud, and imperfect—and maybe that’s exactly what we need more of.
Oh, and here’s a random thought: listening to this record feels kinda like eating burnt toast. Sounds weird, right? But hear me out—it’s not perfect, but there’s something oddly satisfying about it.
