The next generation of Orange Country rock, Long Beach’s Legendary Swagger consists of veterans and newcomers, from bassist Dino Everett of the Streetwalkin’ Cheetahs and drummer Richie Mendez of Foxy to guitarist Skot Pollok of JJ & the Jerks and guitarist Joe Jennings. Gruff-voiced singer/saxophonist Geoff Yeaton has logged time with the Cheetahs and Warrior Soul, but pulls off the frontdude position with more than a soupçon of the attribute that’s half of the band’s name. Swagger doesn’t mean sneer here, though, as straightforward rock & roll songs like “City” and “I’m On the Outside” scoop up plenty of beautiful loserdom to muddy the waters of overconfidence – though he’s equally prepared to “Burn It Down” if shit goes south. Yeaton’s exuberant sax adds a rich flavor to the classic two guitars, bass ‘n’ drums attack, like the E Street Band if they were trying to play Social Distortion. Gypsies, Junkies & Thieves doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it keeps it nicely greased up.
