Band: Idiot Grins; Musicians: Evan Eustis: Bass, mandolin, backing and lead vocals; Michael Conner – keyboards, strings, clavinet and synths; John Hansen: Lead vocals and backing vocals; Michael Melgoza: Drums; and Randy Strauss: Guitars

Album: ‘Hounds of Mess Around;’ Released: March 9, 2024; Label: Snug Harbor; Producers: Strauss and Andrew Smars

Musicians who freely experiment with their sound, while keeping the mood optimistic on every diverse song, often provide the most relatability to their listeners. That’s certainly the case for acclaimed Oakland R&B-soul-alt-country fusion band, Idiot Grins. The group’s recently released fifth album, ‘Hounds of Mess Around,’ features 11 distinctly upbeat tracks that exude a blithe, easygoing attitude.

The members of Idiot Grins, who are led by singers Evan Eustis and John Hansen, have been known to take creative changes in their music throughout their time working together. Their biggest jovial risk came with their 2020 record, ‘Thoughts & Prayers.’ The LP served as a daring reinterpretation of the Louvin Brothers controversial 1959 country-gospel album, ‘Satan is Real.’

As their follow-up to that record, ‘Hounds of Mess Around’ once again highlights the artists’ ability to create a fully evolved sound. The band’s latest set of tunes features danceable rhythms and a compelling tapestry of complimentary instrumentation.

‘Hounds of Mess Around’ begins its energetic journey with the dazzling suaveness of its opening entry, the soul country-infused ‘Reunite.’ Driven by an enthusiastic blend of horns, brass and organs, the song’s vocals infuse the piece with a spirited vigor. The track culminates in a delectable guitar solo at the two-minute mark that’s reminiscent of a Mayer Hawthorne tune.

The LP’s opening entry is followed by its sophomore song, ‘PA Mining Town.’ Like its predecessor, the track features a lively, spirited pacing. That intricate tempo is largely set by Idiot Grins’ drummer, Michael Melgoza. The musician largely sets the tune’s upbeat vibe for its vocals and the rest of its instrumentation.

Another standout song on ‘Hounds of Mess Around’ is its sixth entry, ‘Islands,’ which heavily draws inspiration from Elvis Costello’s charm as a singer-songwriter. Combined with Idiot Grins’ upbeat instrumentation, particularly on the electronic synths, keys and organ, the track features an overall vibrant energy that emphasizes the group members’ overall creativity.

The album begins to wind down with its penultimate entry, ‘Haiku.’ The tune features abrass-infused melody that’s driven by hints of psych-rock. Mixed with its country guitar, the piece is one of the most commercial songs on ‘Hounds of Mess Around.’

Idiot Grins’ latest record comes to a close with its final entry, ‘Our Lady of the Diving Light Fixture.’ The track, which is fremescent of the country-folk-rock single, ‘The Weight,’ by Americana group The Band, features soulful, twangy vocals that are supported by a radiant organ.

Idiot Grins’ latest LP thrives on its catchy melodies, charming vocal harmonies and passionate lyrics. Combined with psychedelic soul, deep R&B and twangy country instrumentation, ‘Hounds of Mess Around’ features a fully evolved sound that keeps the mood carefree and optimistic. The album is a perfect tribute to the band’s constantly evolving sound but equally legendary storytelling techniques.

For more information on Idiot Grins, visit their official website, as well as their Facebook, X/Twitter, Spotify and YouTube pages.