Jeremy Porter And The Tucos – Five-Foot-Three And Tiger Eyes 7″ (I-94 Recordings)

Jeremy Porter and The Tucos continue their journey with the Five-Foot-Three and Tiger Eyes 7″, the tenth installment in the I-94 Recordings’ Detroit Covers Series. Known for their signature blend of power pop, punk, Americana, and indie rock, this Michigan-based trio once again proves why they’re a staple of the local music scene. The single features an original track on the A-side and a cover of a Detroit power pop classic on the B-side, perfectly balancing their knack for storytelling with their ability to breathe new life into an old favorite.

The A-side track, “Five-Foot-Three and Tiger Eyes,” is a high-energy, upbeat power pop anthem with a punk rock edge, bringing to mind bands like X, Cheap Trick, or The Replacements. The song is a perfect example of their’ ability to blend different genres while staying true to their sound. From the first riff, the guitars drive the song forward with a bright power pop tone, layered with just enough distortion to give it that rough-around-the-edges feel that’s essential in punk-influenced rock. Vocally, Jeremy Porter’s performance is heartfelt and infectious. His voice carries a sense of familiarity, like a storyteller spinning a tale in a dive bar, and his delivery is full of warmth and personality. The lyrics center around a girl named Nancy, giving the song a personal, almost nostalgic feel, as if you’re hearing a story that’s been passed around for years. The hooks are undeniable, with melodic guitar lines that stick with you long after the song ends. Behind Porter’s vocals and guitar work, bassist Jake Riley provides a vivid foundation with melodic and punchy basslines, locking in with Gabriel Doman’s tight, powerful drumming. Riley’s contributions don’t stop there, his harmonies elevate the track, adding layers of depth and warmth that push it beyond your typical power pop number. The song’s production, helmed by drummer Gabriel Doman and mixed by Tim Patalan, is crisp and dynamic, allowing every instrument to shine without sacrificing the raw energy of a live performance. It’s clear that attention to detail was a priority, yet the band’s characteristic looseness and spontaneity are left intact, ensuring that the track feels immediate and alive.

The B-side, a cover of The Waxwings’ “While You Spiral,” takes a slightly different approach. The Waxwings were a beloved Detroit power pop band from the turn of the century, and Jeremy Porter and The Tucos do justice to the original while adding their own spin. The Tucos’ rendition is a little rougher around the edges, injected with more grit and attitude, while still honoring the melodic brilliance of the original. Porter’s guitar work on this track is once again stellar, balancing riffs with bursts of distortion, creating a sound that’s both polished and raw. The song’s pacing is tight and brisk, yet there’s a certain laid-back feel that gives it a sense of ease, like the band could play this one all day and never tire of it. The addition of Riley’s harmonies further distinguishes this version from the original, adding a richness to the vocal arrangement that wasn’t present in The Waxwings’ version. The decision to cover The Waxwings feels like a natural fit for Jeremy Porter and The Tucos. Both bands share a love for melody-driven rock with a punk attitude, and the cover works both as a tribute and as a reinterpretation. While The Waxwings’ version has a more ethereal, dream-like quality, The Tucos turn up the energy and inject a bit more “piss and vinegar,” as Porter himself put it, without losing the song’s inherent charm. What makes this single particularly compelling is the way it showcases their ability to blend different genres into a cohesive sound that feels uniquely their own.

You can hear influences from power pop, punk rock, and Americana, but none of those elements dominate. Instead, they coexist in a way that makes each song feel fresh and engaging. Whether they’re telling a story about a girl named Nancy or reimagining a Detroit power pop classic, The Tucos manage to bring their signature energy and authenticity to every track. There’s also a sense of locality that runs through the entire release. The Detroit Covers Series highlights the interconnectedness of the city’s musical legacy, and Jeremy Porter and The Tucos are more than up to the task of carrying that legacy forward. Their passion for their hometown scene is evident, and it adds an extra layer of meaning to the music. Whether you’re drawn to the infectious melodies, the gritty guitar work, or the heartfelt lyrics, this 7” offers something for everyone. The combination of a catchy, original A-side and a lovingly reworked B-side makes this release a must-have for fans of power pop, punk rock, and anyone who appreciates the intersection of melody and attitude. This 7″ exemplifies Jeremy Porter and The Tucos’ versatility as musicians and their commitment to craft and their local scene. If you’re looking for a blend of heartfelt storytelling, punchy riffs, and a dash of Detroit grit, Five-Foot-Three and Tiger Eyes is well worth a spin. Head to I-94 Recordings for more information about ordering.