Late to the party once again, it was not until V was released last year that I really got to grips with Preacher Stone. One could be forgiven, as it had been eight years since the previous album, Remedy. Good things come to those who wait, of course, and having been treated to some stellar UK shows as well as being absorbed by the groove-ridden Southern boogie of V, we are now ready for the next serving, By The Horns.
Preacher Stone – By The Horns
Release Date: 17 October 2025
Words: Paul Hutchings
It is not a long album, but it is rich in quality and that same Southern boogie that we have come to expect. The bombast of the title track through to the Black Star Riders’ style groove of The Devil You Know, this is an album that you can play repeatedly and not get bored with in the slightest. 
The saying the sum of the parts could have been written for Preacher Stone, for each band member is vitally important to the band’s overall delivery. Anchored by the pounding beats of drummer Josh Wyatt, who hits hard yet does not overpower any element of the band’s sound, the smooth bourbon-soaked vocals of Ronnie Riddle hit all the right spots, and the dual guitar work of Ben Robinson and Darrell Whit alongside bassist Jim Bolt is sublime.
Although they sit in the Southern Rock category, and proudly at that, it is the storytelling swagger that makes Preacher Stone such great fun to listen to. They are steeped in the history of bands from Skynyrd, Hatchett, through to Blackberry Smoke and The Cadillac Three, drawing from the influences without plagiarising.
It is a style that works well, brings a groove and sound that is most welcoming, and which, in a world of far too much intensity, just allows time to immerse and switch off.
Do not make the mistake that these songs are simple. They may sound it, but there is plenty of investment to make songs like Come What May and Blessing And A Curse what they are.
The dual guitar work is switched on from the opening title track, driving an infectious riff that gets under the skin, with Riddle’s laid-back, smoky voice, warm and welcoming like an old friend whose company you really enjoy. It is a big boot stomping anthem to start the album, and to be honest, the fun doesn’t stop until the album finishes.
Sometimes, less really is more, and nine songs over 33 minutes means that the quality must be good. Preacher Stone know how to deliver, and I, for one, cannot wait until the boys hit these shores again next February.
Until then, wrap up warm and enjoy a little slice of Southern Rock. It is just what the doctor ordered.
Preacher Stone release By The Horns on 17 October 2025. Pre-orders and tour tickets are available from PreacherStoneBand.com.
