Dirty Guv’nahs happy to be right here, right now

Bonnaroo-bound Dirty Guv’nahs — Aaron Hoskins, from left, Chris Doody, Michael Jenkins, James Trimble, Mitch Stewart and Justin Hoskins — offer a new, self-titled release as a prelude to the festival.

Bonnaroo-bound Dirty Guv’nahs — Aaron Hoskins, from left, Chris Doody, Michael Jenkins, James Trimble, Mitch Stewart and Justin Hoskins — offer a new, self-titled release as a prelude to the festival.

It was a ragtag event when The Dirty Guv’nahs first assembled in March 2006. A first band for the entire roster, the friends hung it up after playing for two months only to reform at the end of the year. Now, three years after its fateful first practices, the group prepares to release its self-titled new album while simultaneously making plans to play this year’s Bonnaroo.

The Dirty Guv’nahs’ product is Southern rock. Reminiscent of The Black Crowes in its old-school approach, the group saw fit to record its new album in Athens, Ga., with David Barbe, whose credits include Drive-by Truckers and REM. Claiming to have solidified its distinct sound on the record, the group agrees its “Dirty Guv’nahs” album is a milestone for the band’s career.

“The new songs are a huge step forward for us musically, lyrically and production-wise,” says guitarist Michael Jenkins. “We went with a self-titled album because we feel like this is album is a new beginning for us and represents the sound we have had in our heads. We love how everything turned out and are excited to share it with everyone.”

Embracing its local roots, the album pays homage to the people and scenes of hometowns across the country, vocalist James Trimble explains:

“Something that’s become really important to me in my mid-20s is the importance of family and of place. Some people are born into great families and some folks are born into (bad) families. You can’t control the lot you’ve been given. If you’re born into something that’s crummy, then you end up creating a new family to help you get by. Most of us find that new community at work, at a bar or a church. We all need people to suffer with and to celebrate with.

“Concerning the importance of place, I’m talking about the fact that most folks spend their whole life wishing they were somewhere else. I’d like to promote a message of ‘love your hometown’ all across America. That doesn’t mean you can’t move around and explore, but I’m convinced that a nation on the run will get little accomplished. Hopefully our music communicates a unique positive energy that encourages folks to love their neighbor and to love their hometown.”

As with most Southern rock acts, the band thrives on its live outings. With flashy jams, nonstop energy and an occasional guest appearance, the Dirty Guv’nahs aim to thrill all who listen. Many will get the chance to experience the Dirty Guvs’ live presence this year as the group makes its Bonnaroo debut. With the opportunity to play to an immense, nation-wide audience, the band’s stock is likely to rise.

“I heard that Ben Harper was so grateful to play at the Ryman Auditorium that he kissed the stage,” says organist Chris Doody. “Bonnaroo has a similar spiritual potency for the Guvs. Making this pilgrimage to Bonnaroo is almost too much to bear.”

The Dirty Guv’nahs will take the stage tonight at the Bijou Theatre in celebration of its release and in preparation for the coming summer festivals. Tonight’s all-ages show will feature Nashville’s The Deep Vibration as an opening act. Doors open at 7 p.m. with music to begin at 8. Tickets are $10 or $8 for students.

n CHICK MAGNETS: Barley’s Taproom hosts The Magnetos Monday night at 10 p.m. This will be a free show.

n BANGING ANONYMOUSLY: Wednesday night the members of Royal Bangs reformulate to perform as Brandon Biondo’s Twinkiebots project at Pilot Light. Also on the bill are Jeff and Forest Magic. The show is slated for 10 p.m. and costs $5.

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