Just like everyone else, Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons had to cancel a lot of carefully-laid plans when the global pandemic descended on us all earlier this year. But as if to confirm their absolute dedication to blowing people’s heads off with thunderous rock’n’roll, the band refused to cancel plans to record a follow-up to their widely lauded debut. Recorded and engineered during lockdown by guitarist Todd Campbell, the second Bastard Sons album may be just the tonic people need right now. It’s called We’re The Bastards and it’s bigger, better and even more raucously uplifting than its predecessor. In fact, it’s the sound of a great band hitting their stride and buzzing with confidence. One enormous favour the band have done themselves this time around is nominating guitarist Todd Campbell to record and engineer the new material at his studio in Wales. We’re The Bastards sounds absolutely huge and wonderfully vibrant and alive: a dazzling showcase for the talent in the Bastard Sons ranks. Mixed and mastered by Soren Anderson (Glenn Hughes/The Dead Daisies/The Answer) it’s such a powerful and convincing leap forward for all concerned that we can only imagine how frustrating it is to be releasing it into such a strange, gig-less world. This is music that demands to be recreated amid the chaos and joy of a live show. Eventually, of course, it will be. We’re The Bastards is exactly the turbocharged kick up the arse we all need while we wait for our rock’n’roll family to be reunited. Play it loud and be ready!