the outlaw orchestra - ruff round the edges

Ruff Round the Edges is the latest album from The Outlaw Orchestra and is the result of the transition between old and new incarnations.

Now as a new project you would think that Dave may be a little cautious with the musical approach, especially the opening track to introduce you to the crossover Outlaw Orchestra era, well you couldn't be further from the truth.

Haybelly is like getting smacked in the face with a wet kipper, definitely there to grab your attention from the off, and is a southern infused hillbilly hoedown of an opener.

Ghost Train gives us a driving beat with a really nice musical flow before bringing the pace down for a little segue near the end before we finish back on track.

Railroad Ghosts is a wonderful piece of haunting instrumental slide. Personally I wish this was longer, maybe a full 3 minutes of this beautiful sound.

Vacation For The Mind is on a different musical level again and is a wonderful heavier melodic tune that builds beautifully into the crescendo of the chorus.

Two Horse race returns to a more fun and playful side akin to the last embodiment of the band.

Ride Brother Ride is a tale of brotherhood on the road, again with a healthy flow throughout as you are taken along for the ride.

The last two tracks are older numbers captured live for your listening pleasure. Too Much Willie Nelson from the Pantomime Villains album and Bag of Bones from La Familia, both crowd favourites.

If you enjoyed The Outlaw Orchestra previously, then this new release will sit proudly alongside the rest of the albums.

Review by Will Carter

Release date 30th October 2026