Canada based Brother Bicker Band released their second album, Another Kind of Train, early in May of 2025. The twelve track album begins with the smooth country ambience of “Nashville Sound.” This song starts off with a catchy guitar line and quickly transitions into the rich and twangy vocals of Jeremy Hrdlicka. “Nashville Sound” is an emotional and nostalgic song, set to a slower tempo it portrays the cityscape of Nashville through music effortlessly. The second song, “I Just Might,” picks up a bit in terms of tempo. Listeners are hit with a melodic and captivating steel guitar line, then drums and more guitar swing in for a classic country sound. “I Just Might” perfectly encapsulates the modern take on country rock, with its twangy instrumentals, memorable melodies, and laid back sentimentality.
“No Straight Lines” is the third track on Another Kind of Train and it comes in hot with a switch in energy. A funky bass line kicks off the fun song so listeners immediately know they’re in for a good time. “No Straight Lines” has killer harmonies on the chorus and will keep any country and rock fan tapping their toes. The album’s titular track, “Another Kind of Train,” initially slows us down once again. The chorus builds up a bit for an emotional chorus with impassioned lyrics longing for home and a simple life.
The fifth track, “Say What You Want to Say,” is a chill and family-oriented listen. The tender lyrics highlight the textured and intoxicating instrumentals. “Stone” is another emotional and passionate track, with lyrics illustrating the difficulties of life, as well as the joys of music and faith. This sixth song marks the halfway point of Another Kind of Train, and the invigorating and pleading chorus would move any listener. The eruption of sound bleeds through the ardent vocalists and thrumming drums, communicating the vulnerability found in the lyrics.
The seventh song, “Storm Chaser,” is a fun mood change from its immediate predecessor. This track grooves, with vocalist Hrdlicka conveying the excitement found in new love and the thrill of the chase. “Storm Chaser” is upbeat and lively with an unforgettable chorus and guitar lines. It’s followed by “Nothing at All,” another lively track that’s great for singing and dancing along to. “Nothing at All” is a passionate song that begins with a playful and funky guitar solo that quickly moves into lyrics lamenting one’s ability to be good enough for another. Despite the more emotional content of “Nothing at All” the instrumentals themselves stay upbeat in a manner that may deceive a listener not paying close attention to lyrics.
Track nine, “The Breakup Song,” is almost exactly what it is titled. However, don’t expect a solemn heartbroken ballad from Brother Bicker Band. This song is a rocking recollection of not only a broken relationship, but also the new era of breakup songs that fail to live up to the vocalist’s expectations. Any person who relates to the thought that breakup songs just aren’t the same anymore may have to think again after listening to “The Breakup Song.”
“Take My Gun” starts off with a classic western guitar riff, slow drums, and sultry vocals from Jennele Coulson and Claire Wilkes. This tenth track stands out as a highlight on the album, with its swinging instrumentals and classic sound it would fit in perfectly at any saloon or car radio. It’s followed closely by “Let Me Down,” another fast-paced and exuberant track. This song pleads for the vocalist’s lover not to let them down with a relentless beat from the drums and exciting electric guitar.
The twelfth and final song on Another Kind of Train is “Bottles,” a slowed down and emotional track. It begins with a short and soft acoustic guitar intro, and while the emotional intensity is high the song remains on the mellow side. It’s a powerful ending to the album, leaving the listener off with the idea of togetherness and the importance of supporting your loved ones. This album has everything, from exciting and high-energy sing-alongs to slower songs perfect for a good cry. Listeners of all kinds should be keeping an eye on Brother Bicker Band.
Written by Gracey Downer
