The Cowslingers
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1991 |
| Defunct | 2004 |
| Headquarters | Cleveland, Ohio , United States |
| Products | Music albums, EPs |
The Cowslingers were a cowpunk ensemble originating from Cleveland, Ohio, active between 1991 and 2004. Their musical approach, highlighted by reviewers such as Ed Masley, merges elements of rock 'n' roll, Americana, and rockabilly. Although they received recognition within the country music genre, their sound is more reminiscent of legends like Merle Haggard and Johnny Cash rather than contemporary mainstream country of the 21st century.
History
The group was established in 1991 when vocalist Greg Miller began his studies at Kent State University. Their initial release was the EP Bad Booze Rodeo (1993) under Drink 'n' Drive Records, followed by two albums in 1994: Off the Wagon and That's Truckdriving. After extensively touring throughout Ohio, they expanded their performances to include East and West Coast circuits. Bassist Ken Miller, Greg’s brother, joined the lineup during this period. Their third full-length album, A Fistful of Pesetas, was launched in 1996 through Spain's Rock & Roll Inc.
In 1997, the band released West Virginia Dog Track Boogie via Shake It Records, followed by Americana a Go Go in 1999. That same year, the Cleveland Free Times honored them as Best Country Act; a year later, they earned the title Best Punk/Hardcore Act. Two albums were issued in 2000: Boot 'n' Rally and Coast to Coast. In 2002, Orange Recordings put out Bull's Eye, a collection of rare tracks. The Cowslingers concluded their career with a breakup in 2004.
Discography
- Bad Booze Rodeo (Drink 'n' Drive EP, 1993)
- Off the Wagon (Drink 'n' Drive, 1994)
- That's Truckdriving (Drink 'n' Drive, 1994)
- A Fistful of Pesetas (Rock & Roll Inc., 1996)
- West Virginia Dog Track Boogie (Shake It, 1997)
- Americana a Go Go (Shake It, 1999)
- Boot 'n' Rally (Shake It, 2000)
- Coast to Coast (Shake It, 2000)
- Bull's Eye (Orange Recordings compilation, 2002)
- Cowslinger Deluxe (Shake It, 2004)