Leatherbag has been an Austin staple since 2005 but their recent 11-track LP from last month will potentially be their final release under the name Leatherbag. They have decided to go forward under a different moniker due to changes in their direction. Under the name “No Future,” the band will be a trio consisting of Randy Reynolds on guitar and vocals, Drew Emmons on bass and Danny Blanchard backing the drums. Read more about No Future here. I’m looking forward to hearing their new sound but may miss the original Leatherbag especially after listening to Ditto Time.
Ditto Time is an eclectic mix of songs that reflect Leatherbag’s varied influences including garage rock, rockabilly and protopunk. On the album, you’ll hear a couple covers, a couple instrumentals and more. Through the 11 songs, only a couple of the tracks go past the 3 minute mark and most wrap up within 2 and a half minutes. These guys have really mastered the art of creating a groove and then moving onto the next one after quickly exploring it. There are definitely no prog breakdowns and cacophonies on the album and I’m alright with that. Instead you’ll find a variation of in your face jams that grab you up in their infectious rhythms.
Leatherbag have stated they are inspired by new wave, rockabilly, garage rock and protopunk. And on Ditto Time, I can hear elements of all of these but the most pronounced influence to me is the influence of protopunk bands like Richard Hell and The Voidoids and Minutemen. There is aggressiveness and rawness in the songs but melody is definitely of paramount importance as well. Mixing up the faster songs are a couple mid-tempo tracks one being “Shambles” and the other is a cover of the late 50s “Sleepwalk” by Santo and Johnny. These tracks really demonstrate the musicianship of the trio. In fact, a highlight for me throughout the album was Drew Emmons’ bass parts. On “Sleepwalk” Drew nails the walking basslines and on “Shambles” the bass parts drives the melody. There’s even a bass solo on the lead track of the album that really lets Drew shine. Check it out in the song below towards the end of the track.
‘Ditto Time’ - Leatherbag
In all, this album is a great close to the Leatherbag discography. It’s filled with unique protopunk tunes and impressive musicianship. Although, Ditto Time may mark the end of Leatherbag, the trio is sticking together for No Future and I’m excited to hear where they go. No Future will be playing Skinny’s Ballroom, one of the coolest rooms in Austin, on April 20th. Catch them there to hear some Leatherbag tunes and some new No Future tunes. Also, stay tuned for updates about No Future at their new site.
-Dan