For much of the Nineties, Missouri’s Bottle Rockets were the torchbearers for smart Southern-style rock. Here, they continue their recent return to form: Brian Henneman sings tenderly of dead soldiers (“Kid Next Door”) and bad marriages, and “Get On The Bus” is a killer blue-collar defense of the environment. – M.K.
“A solid home run that confirms the Bottle Rockets are still one of America’s great unsung rock & roll bands.” – All Music
“A singalong, bash-it-out classic for another decade.” – Washington Post
“One of rock’s most productive and consistent bands. Lean Forward keeps the Rockets’ streak alive and well.” – No Depression
“Lean Forward is the best album they’ve ever made.” – Sonic Boomers
“The band remains the gold standard for rock & roll survivors.” – Riverfront Times
“They’re a band with an influence that transcends their own commercial success.” – Crawdaddy
“Lean Forward is fine, earthy, timeless American rock ‘n’ roll.” – East Bay Express
“The car and the American highway are for the Bottle Rockets what the raft and the Mississippi River were for Twain – a metaphor for escape, freedom, adventure, personal growth and the journey of life.” – Paste