Lone Justice, the influential LA country-punk band, is poised to make a significant return with the announcement of their upcoming album titled "Viva Lone Justice." This marks the band's first full-length record since the 1986 release of "Shelter." The anticipation surrounding the new project has resonated deeply with fans, particularly as it includes previously unreleased material originally recorded by band member Maria McKee as demos for her 1992 solo album, "You Gotta Sin To Get Saved."
The idea to revisit these old tapes emerged in the wake of the passing of drummer Don Heffington in 2021. Musician Marvin Etzioni proposed the concept to McKee, leading to a collaborative effort that aimed to transform these demos into a revitalized project. Instead of pursuing a solo endeavor, McKee invited her former bandmate Ryan Hedgecock to help refine and complete the recordings under the Lone Justice name.
"Viva Lone Justice" promises to showcase a diverse array of musical styles, blending elements of country stomp with folk influences and even featuring a cover of The Undertones’ classic track "Teenage Kicks." The dynamic energy of the album reflects the band’s original artistic vision while also pushing beyond their traditional LA punk and rockabilly roots.
Lone Justice initially gained prominence for their electrifying live shows, particularly through McKee's distinct vocal performances. Throughout their career, they collaborated with esteemed artists such as Bob Dylan and toured alongside major acts including U2 and Tom Petty. Despite facing setbacks in achieving widespread commercial success, the band has maintained a lasting legacy, exemplified by their recent inclusion in a Country Music Hall of Fame exhibit honoring LA's rich musical history.
While details regarding live performances are still uncertain, Etzioni hinted at the potential for further releases, stating, "I might have some other tapes that could turn into another Lone Justice album," encouraging fans to stay tuned for additional updates.
Fans eager to experience new music from Lone Justice can pre-order "Viva Lone Justice" here. The album is also featured in the latest issue of Uncut.