Local Album Spotlight

The Tim Version
Decline of the Southern Gentleman
Words: Lily Richeson
Photos: Jana Miller 

Decline of the Southern Gentleman is the much-anticipated new album from one of Central Florida’s most respected punk bands, The Tim Version. Though at first listen it’s a simple punk album, there are a handful of subtleties that prove Decline of the Southern Gentleman a solid release through and through. Underlying Replacements-influenced guitar riffs and growly backup vocals fill the album until it nearly bursts with energy. The first track titled “Shin Splints” is raw and passionate; much like the entire record. The Tim Version has worked hard on this release, and it shows. The master quality of the album makes them seem like much more than the local, rowdy, punk band that they have become known as over the last few years.

The sound The Tim Version makes is an upfront, even wall of power that sounds great no matter where played. Their songs, though far from delicate, are thoughtfully put together, but still remain the edgy punk melodies that are always great to yell along to. There are tongue-in-cheek lyrics throughout the album like the anthem “I Still Hang Out with the Drinking Crowd,” a clever, relatable reminder of the times when we all think about putting down the bottle after one too many crazy nights. Though the band has previously released past offerings under Bay Area labels ADD and Sooooo Intense, Decline of the Southern Gentleman is being put out on the Gainesville based label, No Idea! Records. With international distribution and a multitude of legendary punk acts that have released material under its title, such as Dillinger Four, Jawbreaker, Radon and Hot Water Music, signing with No Idea! makes a powerful statement.

This release marks a giant step forward for The Tim Version, who have been playing together for nearly ten years and have at least eight releases under their belts that I am aware of. This Tampa based band has toured across the United States and has played shows in the UK and Japan as well. The usual crowd of boisterous drunk punks that follow The Tim Version should greatly enjoy this release. They typically seem to have a ton of fun on stage, and this notion is ever present within the record. Their friends adorn the album, providing backup vocals throughout as well as some playful goofing off on the last track. The band doesn’t sound like they are tiring out any time soon and are obviously a well knit group. Who wouldn’t be after so many years?

Decline of the Southern Gentleman deserves the release it’s getting and will hopefully start to provide the push The Tim Version needs to be recognized as a household name across the punk rock landscape both statewide and nationally.

myspace.com/thetimversion