Description
The Morells – Shake And Push – Cassette
The Morells’ Shake and Push is the debut album by this cult-favorite band from Springfield, Missouri, released in 1982. The album is a joyful, eclectic mix of rock & roll, rockabilly, garage rock, and country-tinged Americana, showcasing The Morells’ knack for playful lyrics, tight musicianship, and an infectious love for classic sounds. Known for their quirky style and irreverent humor, The Morells stood out in the early ’80s indie music scene with their ability to balance nostalgia for early rock and R&B with a fresh, energetic approach.
The album, originally released on vinyl by Borrowed Records, was also issued on cassette by East Side Digital, catalog number ESDC 80392, making it accessible to a broader audience during the cassette’s heyday. Featuring 16 tracks, Shake and Push captures the band’s exuberance and versatility, with standout songs like the jaunty “Gettin’ In Shape,” the humorous “Growin’ A Beard,” and their lively renditions of classics such as “Bumble Boogie” and “That Mellow Saxophone.” Their unique blend of originals and covers pays homage to mid-century rock and roll, filtered through their own irreverent Midwestern sensibility.
Tracks like ‘Red’s’ and ‘Ugly & Slouchy’ reflect the band’s storytelling charm, while songs like ‘Push, Kick, Shout’ bring unrelenting energy and show off their ability to get listeners up and moving. The Morells’ humor and lightheartedness never overshadow their musical talent; their tight rhythms, jangling guitars, and expert use of saxophone and piano highlight their instrumental prowess.
The lo-fi production gives the album a raw and unpolished charm, aligning perfectly with the band’s retro aesthetic. The Morells weren’t chasing radio hits or mainstream success; instead, they were celebrating the joy of making music for its own sake. Shake and Push earned them a devoted following, particularly among fans of roots rock and offbeat Americana, and cemented their reputation as one of the most beloved ‘unknown’ bands of their time.
For those looking to revisit Shake and Push, the cassette version remains a collector’s item and a testament to the band’s cult status.
If you’re a fan of quirky, heartfelt, and fun-loving music in the vein of NRBQ, Commander Cody, or Rockpile, Shake and Push is an essential listen. Its combination of clever lyrics, masterful musicianship, and unpretentious charm continues to delight fans of roots rock and retro-inspired indie music.
Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic seal
East Side Digital Records
Track Listing
1. Rock Bottom
2. Hair Of The Dog
3. Seven Days Without Love
4. Last Nite I Spent My Money
5. Don’t Let Your Baby Buy A Car
6. Mom’s Got A Headache
7. Home In My Hand
8. Hot Rod Baby
9. Double Crossin’ Liquor
10. Gimme, Gimme, Gimme
11. I’m A Hog For You Baby
12. Roy’s Blues
