Yella Belly - "The Long Haul"

Yella Belly has only been around for a little less than a year, but right out of the gate, they were tapped to tour as the direct support for legendary Smiths guitarist Johnny Marr. That’s quite the start for a new project, and Yella Belly is carrying that brisk momentum into 2020 with their latest single, “The Long Haul.” While the songs of Yella Belly may carry the same passion and drama as Marr’s former band, the Smiths, their style is all country, rock, and soul.

On “The Long Haul,” front-person William Thompson bares his heart for all to see for a self-described meeting of “Texas grit and New York grime.” His Texas roots pierce through, but the more urban alt-country stylings of bands like Uncle Tupelo and Paisley Underground legends The Long Ryders are certainly present for a song that’s bristling with energy and the psychedelic spirit of rock n’ roll. Though the song is both upbeat and catchy, it also features confessional lyrics, as Thompson makes an impassioned plea to his significant other to stay with him for the long haul.  The track has just the right amount of twang, as Thompson’s croon conveys a vulnerable earnestness for a delightful modern spin on classic country.

Yella Belly also released another single, “Mean Ol’ Mama.” You can listen to both via your streaming platform of choice.

Photo by Hannah Berg