Bears & Bulls is the second album from bay area quartet The Stone Foxes. It was recorded with literally no overdubs in a studio they built themselves. So much thought and effort has gone into keeping the sound current and organic. The question is, has it paid off?

Bears & Bulls has a soulful and bluesy feel with a modern twist that’s coupled with ideas and themes that any person can relate to emotionally. This clearly echoes the band’s 60s and 70s influences including Bob Dylan and Led Zepplin.

Opening track “Stomp” is only a minute long but in that small amount of time it manages to transfix with the line everything I know will soon be gone, which makes you feel as if this album wants make a lasting impression on you.

The smooth guitar solos in “Reno” only goes to prove that TSF are talented and technical musicians, while the song calls out to be played live. “Little Red Rooster” has that traditional blues feel with its slow tempo and at the same time, is reminiscent of a Jack White song. Clearly, the band’s not afraid of big sounding music.

Last track “Come Again” has a soft approach which brings the album to a perfect close, and is almost refreshing after the guitar-heavy excitement of the rest of the album.

The Stone Foxes have managed to create an album that you will want to place on repeat. Bears & Bulls takes you to a place where good music meets powerful and emotional twists, and yes, the extra work has definitely paid off in a way that will make it memorable.