TOY SOLDIERS are derivative as hell, but good.

Since founding members Ron Gallo and Mike Baurer began writing music for what would be Toy Soldiers, the group dynamic has blossomed from the grassroots duo into a seven-person collective. Geographically located throughout Philadelphia, Toy Soldiers sonically can be traced from the blues-rock bayous of Alabama to the honky-tonk bars of Nashville, Tennessee. Joined by Vinchelle Woods, Kate Foust, and like 37 other people, Gallo and Co. conjure up refreshing soulful blues/rock just in time for summer.

Lately, Toy Soldiers have been coming up in conversation more and more. They’ve played at my friend’s wedding, sold out a record release show at the Fire, and are now debuting their first record on Drexel University’s MAD Dragon Label, with another release show scheduled in May. Ironically after listening to “Whisper Down the Lane” you’ll probably find it difficult keeping these hometown up and comers to yourself.

It’s true. Toy Soldiers sound like the Black Keys (“Throw Me Down”), CCR (“Hard Times”), and Dylan (“Love Ya Like I Love Ya”). But throw in some Ray Charles (“Loaded On Sunday”) and a little ALO (“Which Way Waltz”) and Toy Soldiers have created a monster…a monster sufficient on banjo, owns a raucous dive bar in Louisiana, and was raised on moonshine and B.B. King.

While Gallo receives the most face time (deservedly so, with writing credits, lead vocals and guitar) special accolades have to be reserved for Kate Foust’s vocals on “Be Right Here.” Her elegant wailing shimmers like the sunshine on a placid lake, leading the toe tapping track from start to finish. The same can be said for Daniel King’s soulful crooning on the remorseful blues number “Loaded On Sunday.”

“Whisper Down the Lane” is full of saloon sing-a-longs and boot stompin’ bluesy goodness. The lyrics could be less cliché at times, but the incredible level of energy felt from them is undeniable. And they probably put on one hell of a show too.

myspace.com/ohnotoysoldiers

About Adam Thomas

Adam is a cartoon. He likes to travel, write children's poetry, and listen to music whenever he is awake. And although he does not know it, sometimes when he sleeps.