With Vagabonds, Virgins & Misfits, Campbell & the Dirty Knobs (named after tech slang for a broken amp dial) have made the most expansive and dynamic album of the Dirty Knobs’ one-of-a-kind ride. The group was founded in 2000 by Campbell as a writing and club-date project outside the Heartbreakers. The group finally got on record with 2020's Wreckless Abandon and 2022's External Combustion, both made with George Drakoulias and Martin Pradler.
Those LPs, Campbell says, were the Knobs “trying to find our way as a rock & roll band.” “Now it’s down to great songs,” adds Campbell, “the depth in the lyrics and chords.” He recalls something Petty once told him: “Tom said, ‘I love the English language. There’s so much you can do with it.’ I'm discovering that, too. Looking for rhyme schemes, the right word. At first it was a struggle. Now that door has opened,” Campbell says. “I’ve turned a corner." The Dirty Knobs are “still a rock band but growing into different feels.”
Okay, the dirty knob sucks. Sorry, and the only people buying or listening or showing up are people who want to see someone from Tom Petty. It's just a big myth. I've listened to it man. It's just not good
Hey, that's your opinion but your opinion sucks. Their music is better than any other artist putting new music out. And they absolutely rock in concert! 🤘🤘
Very clever tune about drinking. I forwarded to a bunch of guys I know who quit years ago. The best line in the whole thing is, "You'll always have a place though, somewhere in the back of my mind." For the true alcoholic, that is absolutely true.
Am SO looking forward to seeing Mike and Lucinda in September...and very grateful that Mike is still out there rocking...and, of course, very very grateful for Lucinda being well. A lot to be thankful for...see ya in Sept.
I have seen these guys 3 times. The last time was in Newark Ohio. Mike is a great musician and has put together a solid band. I hope he tours again in 25!