Couchois – Couchois 2025 , MP3+FLAC , Remastered Bad Reputation, CD w/ Scans

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There’s something inherently magical about stumbling across a hidden gem from rock’s golden era, and COUCHOIS 1979’s self-titled debut LP is exactly that kind of discovery. With a rich blend of Californian rock, smooth AOR polish, and undeniable melodic sensibilities, Couchois (pronounced Kü-shwä) deserves a rightful place among the forgotten treasures of the late-70s.
Recently remastered and reissued on CD by Bad Reputation, “Couchois” is a very cool album for fans of FM rock, Westcoast and light-AOR.
Hailing from Alabama and comprised of the talented Couchois brothers—Chris (vocals), Pat (guitars), and Mike (drums)—alongside bassist Howard Messer and keyboardist Chas Carlson, the band brought a seasoned background to this Warner Bros. debut. Having cut their teeth in the mid-60s as Good Times in Alabama and later as Ratchell (which toured with acts like ELP and Bread), the members of Couchois were no strangers to the grind. By the time this album was released, their chemistry and craftsmanship were honed to near perfection.
A review of the album in a 1979 issue of Billboard called Couchois ”a solid debut LP with a very melodic rock sound and noteworthy harmony vocals / keyboard work.” And it’s pretty accurate.

From the opening bars of “Do It in Darkness,” the album exudes a warm Westcoast rock vibe. There’s a touch of Eagles-like harmony, a dash of Pablo Cruise’s laid-back polish, and the lyrical accessibility of Hotel. But make no mistake—Couchois isn’t just riding the coattails of their contemporaries. They infuse their songs with personality, humor, and a colorful musicality that gives the album a distinct identity.

Standout track “Going to the Races” is a joyous ride, combining tight grooves with breezy melodies and clever lyrics. It’s the kind of song that begs to be played loud, windows down, with the wind in your hair. Meanwhile, “Devil’s Triangle” adds a darker, more ambitious layer to the album—an atmospheric piece that proves the band could stretch beyond easy rock into more sophisticated territory.

Vocally, Chris Couchois delivers with a clean, expressive tone that fits both the album’s lighter and more contemplative moments. The production, now remastered, allows the instrumentation to shine—from Carlson’s vibrant keys to Messer’s solid bass lines—every part is balanced, breathing new life into these overlooked tracks.

What makes ”Couchois” so special is its sincerity. It doesn’t try too hard, yet every track feels thoughtfully crafted. It’s smooth, it’s catchy, and it has just enough grit to keep things interesting.
If you’re a fan of late-’70s AOR with a melodic twist, this album belongs in your collection. It might be as good as the heavyweights, but it’s sure a nice slice of feel-good American FM Rock.
Don’t let this one slip through the cracks — ”Couchois” is well worth rediscovering.
Highly Recommended

01. Do It In Darkness
02. The Colonel
03. Walkin' The Fence
04. Cripple
05. Going To The Races
06. Devil's Triangle
07. I Could Never Take Her Away From You
08. No Longer Needed
09. Kalahari Cattle Drive

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