This is recorded live, raw, and sweated through with the sweat of feeling and amped-up anxiety. The singing aches and bites in equal measure, supported by punchy drums, luscious guitar licks, and a truly noticeable old-school charm that hints at classic rock and pop rock leanings. You can hear the room, feel the crowd, and almost taste the tequila in the air. The band pulls you right back in. It's cheeky, subversive, and a subtle reminder that not all excellent performances have to play by the rules. That fake-out moment sends you into a double-take, and plays into the song's slack, rebellious mood.
Some may call it rough around the edges, say, "awful" by contemporary pop standards, but it's that very roughness that makes the track thrum with life. Mineral Kings & Carvelli clearly have no interest in auto-tuned perfection or algorithm-friendly hooks. On the contrary, they're delivering you rough, musical stories straight from the stage, soaked in character and heart. "The Reason Why (Live from JJ's Cantina)" is a gritty, bold rock song that may not be for everyone, but if you like your music raw and honest, this is the perfect choice. The band hit every note well, and they want you to feel every second. And that is why this one does demand a spin.