Them Dirty Roses

About

Them Dirty Roses have been bringing Alabama grit to the Red Dirt scene since their formation in 2012, earning recognition from Rolling Stone as "the Southern Rock Band You've Been Waiting For." The Birmingham-based four-piece—brothers Frank and James Ford handling vocals and guitar, Andrew Davis on lead guitar, and Ben Crain on bass—deliver a sound that bridges classic Southern rock with the storytelling traditions of Oklahoma and Texas country.

Their self-titled 2014 EP introduced their hard-charging style with the standout track "Cocaine and Whiskey," immediately drawing comparisons to Blackberry Smoke while establishing their own identity rooted in autobiographical storytelling and tributes to Birmingham's steel heritage. The band's commitment to authentic Southern narratives resonated with Red Dirt audiences who value similar working-class perspectives and regional pride.

The ambitious two-part project "Lost in the Valley of Hate & Love" showcased their artistic growth, with Volume I arriving in March 2023 and Volume II following in May 2025. This extended work allowed them to explore both the darkness and light of Southern life, combining blues-rock riffs with the kind of narrative depth that Red Dirt fans expect from their favorite artists. Their touring with Turnpike Troubadours cemented their place in the scene, proving that great songwriting and powerful performances transcend state lines.

As Mile 0 Fest 2025 additions, Them Dirty Roses represent the harder-edged side of the expanding Red Dirt universe. While Alabama isn't traditionally associated with the genre, their musical DNA—Southern rock roots, working-class authenticity, and dedication to storytelling—aligns perfectly with what makes Red Dirt music resonate. They're proof that the spirit of this music exists wherever artists prioritize honesty, craft, and connection over commercial compromise.