The album features six originals and four covers, all carrying the raw, soulful character that has become the duo’s trademark.
Tom Spielbauer and April Dirks have built their sound through years on the road playing festivals, theatres, and bars. On ‘Sinners & Saints’, their stripped-down roots are expanded by guest musicians including Dave Moore on harmonica, Heath Alan on saxophone, Tanner Taylor on Hammond B-3 and piano, and Bryan Vanderpool on drums and percussion.
The album gets off to a strong start with ‘Matches & Gasoline’, a standout original that has been a favourite in the duo’s live shows. ‘Motorbike’ follows with gritty guitar, haunting harmonica from Moore, and a tight sound born on the road. ‘Bessie Smith’s Last Ride’ takes a darker turn, with Alan’s saxophone and Spielbauer’s deep, growling vocals adding plenty of atmosphere.
The Cobras also put their own mark on traditional favourites ‘St. James Infirmary’ and ‘Get Right Church’. The former is dark and mournful, with resonator guitar, piano, B-3, and saxophone creating a wonderfully vintage feel, while the latter brings gospel energy with swirling organ and backing vocals.
‘Ruby Red’ has all the feel of a timeless folk classic as it delivers a harrowing story of love and war, while ‘Mind My Own Business’ adds a little blues-rock fire. The album closes beautifully with Thomas A. Dorsey’s ‘Precious Lord’, bringing a soulful, spiritual finish to the collection.
‘Sinners & Saints’ finds the Cedar County Cobras walking the line between Saturday-night sinners and Sunday-morning saints. Authentic, atmospheric, and full of character, the album proves that the duo can honour the roots of American music while making it distinctly their own.
Highly recommended for anyone who loves blues, roots, Americana, and great storytelling.