Album Review: Hospital Handshakes by Rocky Votolato

The Texas-born, Seattle-based singer/songwriter Rocky Votolato hasn't released anything resembling a rock & roll record since 2007's Brag & Cuss, but there were good reasons for it. After enduring a deep depression and crippling self-doubt, his music at the time had to reflect where he was. That said, these experiences resulted in two of his finest albums -- 2010's True Devotion and the self-issued Television of Saints from 2012.

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Rocky Votolato could have easily followed his muse in any number of directions. Hailing from a small Texas town, he could have become a country singer who hailed the virtues of small town life and the roads that lead away. His name would befit that of a rough and tumble fighter, had he opted to go, say, the wrestling route. Heavily influenced by the sounds of punk and hardcore, he could have gone insurgent regardless, forsaking melody for the sake of mayhem.

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For Canadians listening to the new Rocky Votolato record, the first reference point that springs to mind is the Weakerthans. The Winnipeg band is there in Votolato’s loud/quiet songwriting, punk-informed folk rock that appeals to mature adults, a voice that’s strong but with fragility, hugely vivid lyrics. Votolato lacks that band’s political/socially conscious edge, and he’s a great deal more intense.

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Rocky Votolato could have easily followed his muse in any number of directions. Hailing from a small Texas town, he could have become a country singer who hailed the virtues of small town life and the roads that lead away. His name would befit that of a rough and tumble fighter, had he opted to go, say, the wrestling route. Heavily influenced by the sounds of punk and hardcore, he could have gone insurgent regardless, forsaking melody for the sake of mayhem.

Full Review >>