‘Good Times End Times’ is the second full-length release by Beaux Gris Gris and the Apocalypse. Further developing the blues-rock sound laid down on their first album, ‘Love and Murder’, ‘Good Times End Times’ mixes soul with blues and indie-rock to delightful effect.
The unique sound on this album finds its roots deep within the music of Louisiana where vocalist Greta Valenti grew up and in the British blues scene of Cornish native Robin Davey. Together, both enjoyed success and built up a reputation as formidable performers in the rock band Well Hung Heart. And, with Beaux Gris Gris and the Apocalypse, their musical evolution continues to delight and stimulate as it expands their boundaries.
Valenti’s vocals are the star of the show here but that doesn’t take anything away from the rest of her bandmates. Davey’s guitar work is exceptional, as is the subtle keyboard work of Emma Jonson. Add the solid rhythm section of Mark Barrett and Stephen Mildwater, and the fully-fledged band soars.
The high-octane songs ‘Fill Me Up’ and ‘Gris Gris’ are a joyful and riotous mix of indie-pop blues. ‘Is This The Blues’ is almost spoken word and reminds the listener of the early work of Mark Everett’s Eels. ‘Alone’ finds Valenti’s vocals adding vulnerability underpinned by Jonson’s beautiful keyboard work, while on ‘Trouble Is Coming’ Davey’s guitars are fuzzy and raw, complimenting Valenti’s soaring vocals.
It is impossible to pin down the sound of ‘Good Times End Times’ in a specific genre, such is the eclectic nature of the music. Soul, blues, indie, and rock all find their way into the mix. Nevertheless, what can be said with certainty though, is that with this album, Beaux Gris Gris and the Apocalypse have just released the most exciting and original music of 2022.