Rusty Reid has long been known for his thoughtful songwriting that blends folk, pop, country, and rock into a style both lyrical and meaningful. But with his latest project, The Unreasonables, Reid shifts gears in a bold and unexpected way. The first single, “Attitude Change,” released in September 2025, is a playful, sassy, jangly pop-rock track that instantly captures the spirit of a bygone era while sounding refreshingly alive today.
The story behind this release is as fascinating as the music itself. Imagine a rock band in the late 70s or early 80s recording a set of melodic, hook-heavy songs that could have been radio staples—only for the album to be shelved and forgotten. That’s essentially what happened here, as The Unreasonables album sat dormant for decades before finally seeing the light of day. Now, Reid has dusted off the tracks, reintroducing them with the same energy and passion that first drove their creation.
“Attitude Change” kicks things off with jangling guitars and a buoyant rhythm that immediately sets the tone. It’s upbeat, cheeky, and bursting with the kind of youthful confidence that recalls the golden age of pop-rock. The song’s hooks are undeniable, the kind you catch yourself humming long after the track ends. Lyrically, it plays with the idea of shifting one’s perspective—whether in love, life, or relationships—and does so with a wink and a nod that keeps it lighthearted while still relatable.
What stands out most is the authenticity of the sound. Reid and his band don’t lean on nostalgia as a gimmick; instead, they channel it with genuine affection and craft. The guitar riffs are bright and infectious, the vocals carry a raw charm, and the production is warm without being over-polished. It feels like stepping into a time capsule, except the music doesn’t feel dated—it feels timeless.
Compared to Reid’s earlier catalog, which often explores philosophical, political, and spiritual themes, The Unreasonables is a departure into raw, primal, and lustful rock and roll. “Attitude Change” reflects that shift perfectly. It isn’t trying to change the world or unpack life’s biggest questions; it’s here to make you move, smile, and maybe rethink how a good dose of rock and roll can shift your own attitude.
The single is just the beginning. The full album features tracks like “Piece of the Action” (a sultry rock groove), “Shock Me” (an electrified romance), and “Let’s Just Talk” (hesitant but catchy pop). Together, they present a collection that could have been lost to time but instead resurfaces as a vibrant reminder of how good songwriting and energetic performances never go out of style.
With “Attitude Change,” Rusty Reid proves that music doesn’t need to be brand new to feel fresh. Sometimes it just needs the right moment to shine. For longtime fans, this single shows another dimension of Reid’s artistry, while for new listeners, it’s an easy and irresistible introduction. Either way, the verdict is clear: The Unreasonables are finally here, and they’re well worth the wait.
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