Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers are musical beacons of the Southwest. Over the last fifteen years, the Arizona-based quartet has delivered vivid lyrics, addictive guitar riffs, and a full-bodied rhythm section on more than a dozen studio and live albums. The Independent marks the group’s newest release and seventh studio effort, which raises a metaphorical glass to the road less traveled and champions the courageous.

After landing in the top ten of Billboard’s Internet Sales Chart for six consecutive albums—all on independent labels and twice at number one—RCPM is poised to lead the charge for a Spanish-infused, roots rock revolution. The band’s annual music festival in Rocky Point, Mexico, known as Circus Mexicus, is a testament to their growing fan base. What began as a rooftop show thrown together with extension cords and wooden pallets has blossomed into a pilgrimage that draws thousands of “Peacemakers” to the beach town every June. “There’s something about our music that celebrates what’s uniting versus what’s dividing,” says Clyne.

Irony played an integral role […]