Night Herons' album Shipyard Riot is a powerful collection of tracks that showcase the band's unique blend of punk, folk, and Americana influences. The band's raw, gritty sound is evident throughout the album, with driving rhythms, electrifying guitar work, and the distinctive vocals of lead singer, Sam Doores.
From the opening track "Shipyard Riot," with its infectious chorus and driving beat, to the haunting ballad "Ghost of a Sailor," the album takes listeners on a journey through the highs and lows of life in a gritty port town. The songs are filled with vivid imagery and evocative lyrics that paint a picture of a world filled with danger, passion, and struggle.
One standout track is "The Ballad of John Henry," which tells the story of the legendary railroad worker who raced a steam-powered hammer and won, only to die of exhaustion. The song is a powerful tribute to the working-class heroes who built this country, and Night Herons' heartfelt delivery makes it all the more poignant.