Review: Rock band Rogue Royal’s single/video ‘Now or Never’

By Michael Alahverdian, Rock At Night New England

Review: Rogue Royal’s single/video ‘Now or Never’ – November 28, 2023

Rogue Royal’s latest single, “Now or Never,” is a refreshing new song that opens with haunting background vocals that sets the listener up for an unexpected beginning. Hailing from the heart of Minnesota, this quartet—comprised of Collin Gibbs on drums, Monny Ray on rhythm guitar, Clay Deters leading the vocals and rhythm guitar, and Kyle Rutten holding down the bass and adding vocals—crafts a blistering musical experience that echoes the spirit of rock legends while forging its unique identity.

The track bursts open with unapologetic vigor, propelled by Collin Gibbs’ powerhouse drumming that sets an intense pace. Monny Ray’s rhythmic guitar work forms a solid backbone, laying the groundwork for the electrifying interplay between Clay Deters’ commanding vocals and guitar riffs that surge with raw emotion and enthusiasm. Kyle Rutten’s bass lines inject depth and richness into the composition, anchoring the sonic onslaught with unwavering precision. Brilliantly recorded, mixed, and mastered by Brett Havens at Essential Sessions Studio, “Now or Never” is a song that is not to be missed.

Drawing inspiration from rock giants Aerosmith to Lynyrd Skynyrd to Foo Fighters, Rogue Royal pays homage to their predecessors while carving out their distinctive path. The band’s reverence for these icons is evident in their craftsmanship, blending classic rock influences with a modern edge that resonates powerfully.

Accompanying the song is a fast-paced music video masterfully produced by Adam Standon. If you enjoy classic cars and street racing, you should thoroughly enjoy this fine video. Seamlessly intertwining with the song’s fiery narrative, the “Now or Never” music video will captivate both old and new fans.