Few acts in country music command attention like Cliff & Susan, and with their new single “Spitfire,” they’ve lit up the genre’s landscape once again. In a vibrant, back-to-basics yet all-out sonic assault, the dynamic duo proves that passion, personality, and a finely honed musical craft can still set hearts ablaze.
From the moment the track kicks in, “Spitfire” grabs you with its rollicking fiddle lines, blistering guitar riffs, and an unmissable charm that’s underpinned by Cliff’s virtuosity—a one-man band approach that feels both meticulously crafted and wonderfully raw. Yes, the man is behind the wheel on lead vocals, guitar, fiddle, drums, and bass, painting a picture of boundless energy, while Dane Bryant’s Hammond Organ and Terry Martin’s pedal steel add that extra layer of country grit.
Lyrically, the song is a tribute to a formidable feminine spirit—one as unpredictable and intoxicating as a strong sip of moonshine. With playful lines like “fiddle and steel your heart away” and vivid depictions of a woman in black fringe boots who’s equal parts mischief and allure, Cliff’s pen captures a story that feels both personal and universally resonant. In this era, where the archetype of womanhood is evolving in bold new directions, “Spitfire” stands as an anthem for the fearless and the fiercely independent.
https://open.spotify.com/track/0yJeLw3xpH1CuIuSARRkQq
Produced with the tight precision and spirited warmth of a true roots outfit at their Big Red Dog Productions studio, the track has a live-wire quality that’s hard to overlook. It’s clear that the Prowse partnership—both marital and musical—brings out the best in each other, generating a sound that’s as engaging in the studio as it is under the lights on stage.
Perhaps what sets “Spitfire” apart is its ability to blend the traditional with the contemporary. It’s a throwback to old-school country storytelling paired with a modern, rock-infused delivery that’s as dynamic as the woman it praises. For those who have followed Cliff & Susan’s rise from their Arkansas roots to the national spotlight, this is a rejuvenating reminder of why their performances continue to sizzle with authenticity and spark.
“Spitfire” isn’t just another single—it’s a statement. And as the new year unfolds, this track is poised to ignite radio waves and hearts across the country, affirming once again that the spirit of country music is alive, unpredictable, and ready to rock.
–Jim Marcy
