In 2006, singer/lyricist Jake Rabinbach made the ambitious decision to ditch the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple, following the sound of his childhood R&B favorites down to Memphis, TN. Once there, he flexed his musical muscle and quickly caught up with three other full-time musicians -- turning his solo acoustic act into a full-blown Southern frenzy.

Thus Jump Back Jake was formed, and with the help of two friends talented on the trumpet and sax, they put out Brooklyn Hustle/Memphis Muscle last December. The album is clearly a result of a rugged songster who grew up picturing himself alongside Muddy Waters, realizing his dream once placed in the right surroundings with the right group of guys.

The foursome puts out a sound that captures the rock-and-roll rigor of The Stones in "Honky Tonk Women" mixed with the twangy emotion of country star Billy Ray Cyrus. If the classic rock tone wasn't heard enough in the rich guitar hooks and kicks, then it's definitely noticeable in the lyrics: for example, the not-so-subtle Samson and Delilah shout-out in Samson and the love of Lou Reed's heart in Too Cool For Love . And every once in a while, like in Say A Prayer , you hear a toned-down version of Kid Rock, circa his collaboration with Sheryl Crow in "Picture."

All of the country-rock story-telling, triumphant backyard jug beats and plunky ballads take a unique turn with the addition of horns, giving this breakthrough country album a Rastafarian/ska sound. This new spin on American roots will soon sweep the nation, from the bluegrass capital through the Bible Belt and beyond.

Recommended Tracks:
Easy Answers
Too Cool For Love