Released in 2012, the album showcases The Bad Companions’ signature blend of rockabilly energy and roots-rock songwriting — guitars, upright bass, and dynamic rhythms combine with a sound that feels both classic and lively. Songs tend to lean into storytelling and heartland rock themes, often tinged with humor, heartfelt characters, and barroom-ready hooks.

• “Minneapolis’ The Bad Companions proved they could swing with the best of them with their debut album, What Me Worry?, released in early 2012. The record shows off the four-piece band hopping seamlessly from more traditional, upbeat rockabilly and roots sounds to swing and surf rock notes, without missing a beat, all while keeping a pop hook in plain sight. Raucous tunes like “Four Foot Four,” “Jesus & Tequila,” and “Dressed In Black” all hit their mark, with the kind of fast guitar and bellowing vocals that beg for a live setting. After honing their skills at rock ’n’ roll dance nights and bowling alleys, The Bad Companions play beer-swilling, highway-driving, fightin’-and-dancin’ music… hopefully not all at the same time.” — The Onion A.V. Club. March 7, 2012
• “A honk tonk rockabilly band from Minneapolis, the Bad Companions are a pretty good bouncy hillbilly group. They’re a really good band who remind me of BR-549 except bouncier than them and honestly, I like ‘em better!” &mdash Radio Billy FM
• “Man, they really put on a show and they sound fantastic. I highly recommend this band! — Jim Sundquist, The Fendermen
• “It’s a lively platter, a bit frantic in some places, powered by Scott “Frenchy” Fremont’s explosive drumming, and highlights Alan Subola witty songwriting. First-spin highlights include the hilarious and too-true anthem “I Liked Hank Before You Did”, about rockers crassly jumping on the faux country bandwagon. — Star Tribune, Minneapolis, MN
• “…fronted by Al Subola, semi-legendary for his roles in the Vibro Champs and Reverse Cowgirl, they play a mix of surf, Americana and, of course, rockabilly. If nothing else, it provides the opportunity to settle in with a glass of Maker’s Mark and soak up the nostalgia among the pin-up styled ladies and slick-haired fellas.” — VitaMN (Minneapolis, MN)
• “…an emerging group who are a who’s who of Mpls rockabilly artists (members come from The Vibro Champs & Jack Knife & the Sharps) – the record is quite good!” — Centerstage Minnesota with Charlie Pulkrabek: 2012 Year End Roundup on Northern Community Radio (KAXE & KBXE)