Steak Night at the Prairie Rose is a full mix of knee-slappers and chill vibes making it into some of the most incredible southern, dive bar music ever created.
Mike Harmier and his extensive band The Moonpies are veterans of the dusty road and the first song on the album “Road Crew” may be the tour anthem for many years to come. Mike really wanted to give a long-awaited shout out to all the unsung heroes on his crew and also to all the individuals in small roles that create the backbone in making music come to life.
Hailing from Texas, the Moonpies new album Steak Night at the Prairie Rose is riddled with gritty instrumental interludes, but none more prevalent then the second song on the album “Might Be Wrong.” With “Johnny B Good” type vocals and swingy guitar riffs this is a sure-fire favorite for a live show. The title track of this album, “Steak Night at the Prairie Rose” is the most autobiographical. Mike Harmier takes us through his first gig at a local steak joint playing for his dad up until his father passes but is always on stage with him in spirit. “Getting High at Home” and “Things Ain’t Like They Used to Be” are both full of drug references which give way to a more Willie Nelson version of country.
Mike and the Moonpies take us into a more steady-beat song with “The Last Time” that explains Mike trying to leave an ex-lover but always falling back into the same love trap. This diverse band now slows it down with my personal favorite “The Worst Thing.” This poetic song will leave you guessing what the worst thing Mike has ever done all while indulging in a heart-wrenching harmonica blues rhythm. “Beaches of Beloxi” showcases Mike Harmier’s extraordinary vocals with a laid-back demeanor perfect for any sandy situation. Last on the album, “We’re gone” is the perfect “show stopper” according to Mike Harmier himself on the commentary portion of this album.
The producer, Adam Odor, and Mike’s commentary is just as much worth a listen as this tremendous album because of all the amusing back stories behind each song. The inspiring lyrics and the symphony of instruments on this album, ranging from a steel guitar to an organ, progress into a sound that seemingly comes from a time-machine decades ago making Steak Night at the Prairie Rose a must listen for any fan of country music.