Too Bad (Acoustic Live 2019)

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Too Bad (Acoustic Live 2019)" by Rival Sons, recorded at the Haybale Studio during the 2019 Bonnaroo Music Festival, and the Zoo Freaks are loving this soulful, stripped-down vibe. This acoustic rendition, part of the Live From the Haybale Studio at The Bonnaroo Music Festival album, showcases the band’s raw energy in a unique setting—a studio built from bales of hay, creating a naturally soundproofed space. Rolling Stone described the performance as a simmering take on the Feral Roots track, with frontman Jay Buchanan’s vocals building to a roar and guitarist Scott Holiday delivering an intricate solo. The Haybale Sessions, which also include acoustic versions of “Do Your Worst” and “Jordan,” were released digitally on August 23, 2019, capturing a rootsier side of the band’s typically high-octane live shows.

One juicy tidbit comes from a Rival Sons X post on December 9, 2019, where they shared a story about another acoustic performance of “Too Bad” at the GRAMMY Museum. Recorded after a grueling tour and a passionate show at the Wiltern Theatre, Jay Buchanan’s voice carried a raw, gritty edge, described as “100% passion.” Fans on Instagram raved about the Bonnaroo version’s haunting quality, with one commenting on the band’s post that Buchanan’s delivery felt like “he was singing right to your soul.” The song’s lyrics, like “I know you better than you think I do,” hit hard in this intimate setting, and the acoustic arrangement earned praise for revealing the band’s versatility, as noted by WMMR, which called it proof of Rival Sons being one of rock’s best live acts.

Rival Sons formed in Long Beach, California, in 2008, rising from the ashes of guitarist Scott Holiday’s previous band, Black Summer Crush. The lineup solidified with vocalist Jay Buchanan, drummer Michael Miley, and bassist Robin Everhart, though Dave Beste replaced Everhart in 2013. Buchanan was initially hesitant to join, but Holiday convinced him to try rock ‘n’ roll, leading to a re-recording of their debut album Before the Fire in 2009. Their big break came with exposure from their song “Tell Me Something” in an Indy car racing ad campaign, followed by opening slots for legends like Alice Cooper and AC/DC. Signing with Earache Records in 2010, they released their self-titled EP and the album Pressure & Time, both produced by Dave Cobb, who’s remained a key collaborator. Their bluesy, classic rock sound, paired with Storm Thorgerson’s iconic artwork, helped them build a strong European following, touring with bands like Judas Priest and Evanescence.

Stay connected with Rival Sons through their Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share tour updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and fan interactions. Fans can also join the vibrant Rival Sons Fans Facebook Group, a community of over 5,000 members swapping stories, rare photos, and concert experiences. For deeper dives, check out the fan-run Rival Sons Fan Website, packed with discographies, tour archives, and forum discussions for die-hard Zoo Freaks looking to keep the rock ‘n’ roll spirit alive.