Durham’s own Bull City plays a beautiful form of alternapunk with a southern flavor. Their 2007 release Guns and Butter is in-between an EP and album—with seven tracks its right between the usual lengths for both. But as I listened to it online over and over, I came to the conclusion that it is completely worth purchasing. Some songs, like “Ford Ranger All American”, throw the Southern-hick-isms at you complete with twang, roaring guitars, and lyrics about cowboy hats, fishing, and American pride. They make me think of tail-gaiting, beer, and ice tea. Sweet, of course. On other songs, though, they bring it back to a more punk vibe but mix it up with beautiful melodies and nostalgic cello (“Game”).
Big sound alternating with soaring sweetness makes this a unique release perfect for driving fast on a twisting country road. This is not just a good “local” band—but a good everywhere band. But, for the local listener it is nice to have some hometown flavor in one’s music collection. If anyone ever asks for proof that “Durham Rocks” (alluding to the sparkly shirts found in Downtown Durham), just point them towards Bull City.
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