Album Review
Vagabonds, Virgins & Misfits
by Mike Campbell & The Dirty Knobs
Released 6/14/2024
By Joe Vickrey
Vagabonds, Virgins & Misfits Album Art
As a whole, this is the strongest Dirty Knobs album. The guitars feel massive, the vocals sit powerfully at the forefront, and there is a palpable synergy between the players.
You might not know his name, but Mike Campbell has been one of the most prolific songwriters and guitarists in rock history. From his longtime reign as co-captain of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers; to his residencies with Fleetwood Mac, playing with Johnny Cash and Bob Dylan; to writing songs for other notable singers like Bryan Adams: Mike Campbell is an unsung hero and a pillar of rock music.
Now, three albums into his solo adventures with his band, The Dirty Knobs, Mike has more than comfortably settled into his role as a frontman.
Photo by Chris Phelps
The group sounds tight, the vibes are loose, and the mood is light.
From the tongue-in-cheek salute to the love of drinking in ‘My Old Friends’ to the chanting of ‘Aye! Aye! Aye!’ in ‘So Alive,’ The Dirty Knobs could be the ultimate summertime barbecue band. Friends old and new get together to enjoy some upbeat music that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Country legends Lucinda Williams and Chris Stapleton were nice enough to stop in at the party, too!
Despite being absolute barn burners, songs like ‘Dare to Dream’ and ‘Don’t Wait Up ‘feel bittersweet knowing that these songs would have undoubtedly ended up on Tom Petty records if he were still with us. ‘Dare to Dream’ especially would’ve fit in with the Hypnotic Eye album, but that’s not to say it isn’t an incredible song on its own! While I don’t think I’ll ever be able to separate Tom and Mike’s music in my mind, in a way it feels like Tom’s chair is still at the barbecue, and his legacy lives on through Mike’s music.
This album radiates with fun. So much so that it could be easy to overlook my pick for the strongest Knobs track to date. ‘Hands Are Tied’ is a dynamic waltz with the tone of a lullaby. In this rare diversion from their typical anthemic rock, Mike’s voice takes on such a rich character. The gentle compassion of the song’s protagonist offers such a delicate flavor to the mix. The lightness in Mike’s voice has me begging for more. I would love to hear this contemplative vocal pallet utilized more in their future works.
As a whole, this is the strongest Dirty Knobs album. The guitars feel massive, the vocals sit powerfully at the forefront, and there is a palpable synergy between the players that weaves everything together beautifully – and more so than in their past albums. In no small part is this due to the triumphant reunion of Campbell and longtime Heartbreakers drummer, Steve Ferrone. Steve’s seasoned playing rarely draws attention to itself. Instead, it focuses the listener’s attention exactly where it needs to be.
Photo by Chris Phelps
All throughout his career, Mike Campbell literally wrote the definition of playing-to-the-song. Never overstaying his welcome, his guitar playing lifts every composition he’s in. This album is filled to the brim with tasteful slide guitar, but it never hits harder than on ‘Angel of Mercy.’ It cannot be overstated that Mike Campbell is not a flashy player, nor does he repeat himself, but when he plays a lead all knees bow to the king.
As always, The Dirty Knobs’ lyrics are direct and tinged with Southern humor. ‘Innocent Man’ highlights this with what sounds like small talk at the bar:
Ain’t got nothing in the trunk of my car,
Just some Ludwig drums and an old guitar.
Playing all night, sleeping all day,
Ain’t much else worth doing anyway.
It’s funny, it’s honest, and it’s great imagery. These are musicians that love music, and it’s music made for the joy of making music, and it is done VERY well.
Vagabonds, Virgins & Misfits is an excellent showcase of some of rock’s most decorated players. They clearly don’t intend to rest on the laurels of yesteryear, and they show no signs of slowing down anytime soon.