English Oceans is the tenth studio album by the rock band Drive-By Truckers. Released March 4, 2014 on ATO Records, it was produced by long-time collaborator David Barbe and recorded during two weeks during the late spring of 2013. Once again Wes Freed provided the album’s artwork and cover. A stripped down Rock N’ Roll record full of gritty songs that have made DBT a cult favorite for so long. English Oceans marks the first time the Drive-By Truckers returned to the studio in four years and is their only record to date with just two songwriters.

The album alternates songs from Patterson Hood’s and Mike Cooley’s new material starting with the Cooley rocker ’Shit Shot Counts’. English Oceans is also the first time Cooley sings one of Patterson’s songs on a DBT record.

I am noticing as I get older that I personally prefer Cooley’s songs. Nearly a master at the craft of songwriting his wording and phrasing is so painterly that you can literally see every word he sings like you are there, in the song. I believe this record offers the best collection of Mike Cooley songs in a very long time.

Don’t get me wrong, Patterson Hood can still write some great songs too. Examples: ‘Pauliine Hawkins’ and ‘Grand Canyon’ are both stand out songs on this record, both penned by Hood. The latter is a tribute to Craig Lieske, a close friend of the band’s who suddenly died recently. Lieske was somewhat of a legendary figure in Athens, GA, and at one point was Patterson’s boss when he worked on the cleanup crew at the 40 Watt Club in Athens.

Overall I would recommend this record to any DBT fan,and anyone else who can appreciate  Springsteinesque lyrics and a solid American recording from a true American rock band. I give the record a total of seven out of ten stars.    

DBT’s current line-up is:
Patterson Hood – guitar, vocals,
Mike Cooley – guitar, vocals,
Brad “The EZB” Morgan – drums
Jay Gonzalez – keys, guitar
Matt Patton – bass, vocals