Lone Justice, the influential LA country-punk band known for its eclectic sound, is set to release "Viva Lone Justice," marking its first full-length record since 1986's "Shelter." The new album contains previously unreleased material recorded by band member Maria McKee as demos for her 1992 solo album, "You Gotta Sin To Get Saved."
Following the death of drummer Don Heffington in 2021, musician Marvin Etzioni encouraged McKee to turn these old tapes into a new project. Instead of a solo effort, McKee reached out to former bandmate Ryan Hedgecock to help refine and finalize the recordings under the Lone Justice name.
This album features a diverse mix of styles, including country stomp, folk influences, and a cover of The Undertones' "Teenage Kicks." The dynamic energy of the tracks reflects the band's original vision, which departs from the constraints of their LA punk and rockabilly roots.
In its early years, Lone Justice gained acclaim for their vibrant live performances and the distinctive vocals of McKee. The band collaborated with prominent artists like Bob Dylan and toured with big names including U2 and Tom Petty, yet struggled to achieve runaway commercial success. Despite these challenges, the band's legacy endures, showcased by their inclusion in a Country Music Hall of Fame exhibit dedicated to LA's music scene.
While the future of live performances remains uncertain, band member Etzioni hinted at the potential for additional releases. "I might have some other tapes that could turn into another Lone Justice album," he stated, inviting fans to stay tuned for more developments.
Fans can pre-order "Viva Lone Justice" here. Additionally, the album is featured in the latest issue of Uncut.