Motorbike: The Ultimate Embodiment of Rock 'n' Roll

Building on the power of 2023's self-titled debut album, Cincinnati rockers Motorbike is back with another shot of primal noise and raw vitality on their second album Kick It Over, a true group effort that hits on all cylinders with its razor-sharp hooks, tough guitars, and rugged Midwest charm — thus far the group's ultimate statement. While the record is out March 21st on Feel It Records, the group shared with us the lead cut "Currency," a high-powered jangle rush that perfectly encapsulates rock 'n' roll. In case you're unaware, this is the sort of group for any rock fan with a sense of history. When we spoke to the group back in 2023, frontman Jamie Morrison discussed the group's origins and said, "We tend to play music with each other in different configurations quite often. Dylan, Dakota and I were playing with our Friend Eric Dietrich from the band Sorry Eric. We were messing around with the riff and structure that became Motorbike that evening. Once Jerry had his spill, the lyrics were formed and the idea to start this band was born. Possibly those ideas happened before that jam and crash. I certainly wanted to start a group here with these guys in Cincy and we'd all talked about it. Dakota had a load of riffs in the bank. The only vision in mine was to be a band that Bon Scott could've joined."

First tell me what you've been up to as of late? Jerry, the new studio looks like it’s coming together more.

Jerry Queen: I've been spending all my free time putting the finishing touches on the new Checkered Flag studio space. The acoustic treatments are just about finished, then I plan to move gear over and get settled in. I'm very excited to get it up and running.

What can you tell me about your upcoming album, Kick It Over? What insight can you share about how, where, and when it was recorded?

JQ: We began recording it shortly after the debut album came out. It was recorded in the old basement Checkered Flag spot, same place we did the first one, with yours truly engineering and we all got together for mixing. I acquired some new audio toys that I used to spice it up a little bit, I'm very happy with how it turned out.

Today the label shared with us the lead cut "Currency." What inspired you to write this one?

Jamie Morrison: It came about when I was in Wales contemplating trouble and strife in Ohio. Jerry, Dylan and I initially fleshed out the bones and when we played as a full band Dakota leaned into having a chorus really act as such. It’s about being at your wits end. This record sounds fuller and more like a group effort.

How would you compare it overall to 2023’s debut?

JQ: We all contributed song ideas and flushed them out as a band and recorded them live (sans vocals) to the tape. I really like the song selection and flow of this album.

Philip Valois: The first album was recorded as we wrote and finished so quickly. We took more time thinking about arrangement and the mix for Kick It Over.

What inspired the songwriting on the album?

JM: I don't feel at liberty to say.

What were some of your favorite memories putting it all together?

PV: Learning all of the ways to shake a tambourine and smoking in a basement.

What are some future plans for Motorbike?

JQ: I hope to keep making records with this group of people and to play some shows here and there when everyone’s schedule permits.

PV: I hope we can buy Jerry a new motorbike with the royalties.

Kick It Over is out March 21st on Feel It Records.