“Buckle in the Bible Belt” presents a strong show of songwriting and an original sound. Vocals are a mixed between belted lyrics and harmonic gospel-like chants with some singing thrown in. it’s all steeped in heavy guitar riffs and rolling drums. It really focuses on the lyrics. Ha Ha Tonka’s lyrics speak about the ugly things in the world. No place reflects the kind of social problems covered with a religious facade like the Bible Belt. they rage against the injustices and they paint a picture of the world that can’t be dismissed. The album has some great original tracks like “Saint Nick on the Fourth in a Fervor” and has a good cover of “Hangman.” It’s main problem is that it gets exhausting. Like any social criticism, it can make things feel pretty bleak. While It’s not an album that’s going to be listened to in repeated succession, it IS really fine bit of music.

-Elliot Roe