The Long Ryders

The Profile

The Long Ryders are an American band formed in Los Angeles in 1982 by Sid Griffin and Steve McCarthy with Greg Sowders and Barry Shank. Key figures in the Paisley Underground, they fused Byrds-style jangle with country rock and cowpunk energy across core releases like 10-5-60, Native Sons, State of Our Union, and Two-Fisted Tales. After their initial 1980s run, they reunited for new studio albums including Psychedelic Country Soul (2019) and September November (2023).

Formed in Los Angeles (1982); associated with the Paisley Underground; name nods to The Long Riders film and the Byrds (the “Y”); notable albums include 10-5-60, Native Sons, State of Our Union, Two-Fisted Tales; later releases: Psychedelic Country Soul (2019), September November (2023); American country-rock/alt-country pioneers.

Three DeBaser reviews chart The Long Ryders from the jangle-and-post-punk spark of 10-5-60 to the country-rock punch of Native Sons and the polished swan song Two-Fisted Tales. The writers underline Byrds DNA (the “Y” says it all), cowpunk grit, and West Coast melodies. Highlights include live-ready anthems and melancholic ballads, with nods to mandolin and slide guitar. Verdict: enduring songs, strong hooks, and plenty of twang.