Louis Emory and the Reckless Few - The Siege EP (2026)

The Siege, which is the new EP by Louis Emory and the Reckless Few, is a little bit dark and sultry and a whole lot of roots and heartland rock style in expressive, anthemic, personally relatable songs. The addition of Georgia Jones on backing vocals in the mix adds a rich Southern dimension to it all. Engineered by Shelly Yakus, who produced and mixed for The Band, the EP bears the impressions of quality and timeless American rock.

The EP opens with the title track and the pulse of low strings: “It’s not in our stars baby, but in our hearts.” Georgia Jones adds a thrilling touch of vocals as the song draws to a close. The music is layered with an overall electric rock vibe. Emory reveals from the start that this EP is going to look inward at the recesses of the human heart and experience.

On “Do What I Want to Do,” the lyrics are right on target with the times: “What’s with these days? We’re slow to turn the other cheek, it’s a sign of the times… if I’m not part of your tribe must I be crucified?” It’s a lesson on what it means to form opinions within the modern milieu driven by keyboard warriors.

There’s a bright touch of mandolin on the ballad “Cortona” that is refreshing and bright: “we could be free in Cortona, just you and me in Cortona,” and then there’s building up courage over a bottle of wine to speak to that girl in the low cut sundress. It’s the inner thoughts, expressing the vulnerability of desires.

“Prophets Said” is Petty-esque and Louis Emory’s whiskey-soaked vocals are a perfect touch in combination with the guitar riffs, and a song about nights at the venue, exchanging glances and reflecting on things that might have been: “we were just ships passing in the night, flames dancing in eternal lights.”

“Time Keeps Passing By” shows Emory’s vocal range is broad and he can go higher, in a vulnerable song about regrets and nostalgia, and the ever present fact that “you can check out any time…” “Once Again” showcases Emory’s ability, one more time, to be vulnerable and hushed.

This is a gratifying EP that would make a great conversation piece at this summer’s parties. It’s never too heavy as it keeps a foothold on a rock n roll grit. The introspective lyrical elements are carried by the relatable, and just cool, heartland rock instrumentation. Find the music streaming everywhere.