The Soda Crackers Release Debut Album, Reviving Bakersfield Sound on Vinyl

The Soda Crackers, a six-piece band, have announced the release of their self-titled debut album, now available for streaming on all platforms and on vinyl record. This release marks a continuation of the Bakersfield Sound tradition on vinyl, inspired by the legacy of the local Tally Records label. Rhythm guitarist, lead vocalist, and fiddler Zane Adamo, 32, described the project as a 'Bakersfield' inspired endeavor from start to finish, drawing inspiration from legendary Bakersfield Sound artists. The band began recording their original music in mid-December 2024, with much of the work taking place at Ecco-Fonic Studio in Northridge, CA, under the direction of SoCal traditional Country & Western guru Deke Dickerson. Additional sessions occurred at Angel Cowboy Studio in Oklahoma City, OK, and by Alex Clark in Norman, OK, with recording completed in July 2025.

Adamo emphasized that the band did not want to rush their first album, aiming to solidify their identity and sound before releasing music. The album features ten songs, including six originals by current and former band members and four covers of influences. Lead guitarist Ben McCarthy contributed two originals, 'Don’t Start A Fire' and 'Blackboard Boogie,' while Adamo wrote 'Goin’ Broke, Livin’ Rich' and 'Tomorrow’s Used To Be,' and re-recorded the debut single's A-side, 'Two-Step Solution.' Mixing and mastering were handled by Dickerson of Ecco-Fonic Studio and Kyle Appleton of Appleton Productions. All tracks are streaming now, but for vinyl enthusiasts, the album is available online, at Going Underground Records in downtown Bakersfield and Little Tokyo, and at all Soda Crackers shows. Limited edition 'Tequila Sunrise' vinyl and standard black vinyl are offered, with prices starting at $25 plus shipping.

The album release party is scheduled for Saturday, December 13, at the Fairfax Grange 570 Dance Hall, where The Soda Crackers will perform songs from the new album and favorites by influential artists. Adamo expressed hope that fans enjoy the album and attend the show. This release is important as it revitalizes the Bakersfield Sound on vinyl, connecting past musical heritage with contemporary artistry, and making original music accessible in both digital and physical formats, supporting local record stores and live music venues. The band's dedication to preserving this sound while creating new work underscores the cultural significance of regional music traditions in an era dominated by streaming, offering a tangible connection to history for collectors and fans alike.