Bon Boy is the raucous alter-ego of multi-instrumentalist Steve Stenholt who delivers a wild-eyed, unapologetically raw take on Bob Seger‘s original single ‘Ramblin’ Gamblin’ Man’. It’s full of garage-rock grit and punk swagger; this is loud, loose and unapologetically self-aware.
Originally demoed in a dusty corner of Tucson, Arizona, and later brought to life in Los Angeles with producer Justin Ripley, the cover is dry-mixed and stripped down, capturing the vintage sweat of a ’70s roadhouse without ever sounding like a museum piece. Mixed by Mike Novak in Chicago, it bursts with grimy energy, replacing Seger’s original bluesy swing with something more frantic and feverish. Directed by Afshin Hatami, the DIY-style music video sees Bon Boy swaggering through L.A. in full party animal mode.
Bon Boy takes ‘Ramblin’ Gamblin’ Man’ beyond a straight-forward cover song and has transformed it into a messy and joyful statement. It’s a respectful nod to Bob Seger, but also a love letter to recklessness, imperfection and the kind of rock & roll that doesn’t ask permission. Bon Boy leans into the chaos and the result is as refreshing as a cold silver bullet on a desert afternoon.
You can also listen to ‘Ramblin’ Gamblin’ Man’ in our Indie Rockers playlist.
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