The album Inverted Valentine, initially self-released by the band in 2008 and later re-issued in 2009 on Lonesome Day Records (LDR-015), captures Girls Guns & Glory—the Boston-based roots-rock/country ensemble fronted by singer-songwriter Ward Hayden—in a dynamic fusion of honky-tonk swagger, rockabilly punch, classic country twang, and Americana introspection across 11 tracks totaling about 41 minutes. Drawing from influences like Hank Williams, Chuck Berry, and Waylon Jennings, the album explores themes of twisted romance, road-worn resilience, and unrequited longing through energetic shuffles, mid-tempo grooves, and brooding ballads that highlight the band’s barroom vitality and melodic craftsmanship.

Produced by Rob Loyot at Noise In The Attic in Scituate, MA—with engineering by Dan Farwell, Rob Loyot, and Sean McLaughlin—the project lists Ward Hayden as executive producer. Mixing was handled by Adam Taylor at Camp Street Studios (assisted by Alex Hartman), while mastering was done by Jeff Lipton at Peerless Mastering (assisted by Maria Rice)—resulting in a lively, retro-modern production that amplifies raw instrumentation, layered textures, and organic energy without over-polishing the roots-rock essence.

Standout cuts include the propulsive opener “Six Sixty Seven”, the title track “Inverted Valentine”‘s melancholic depth, the rollicking “Ramblin’ Ole Daddy”, the seductive “Temptation”, and the heartfelt “Keep On Calling”, blending fast-paced drivers with reflective narratives for a cohesive, engaging flow.

The core musicians drive the album’s sound: Ward Hayden on rhythm acoustic guitar and lead vocals (primary songwriter); Colt Thompson on lead/rhythm electric guitar and backing vocals; Bruce “iv” Beagley on bass; John Graham (AKA Johnny Surprises) on drum kit and backing vocals. Guest contributors add rich layers: Dinty Child on accordion (tracks 4,10), fiddle (4), and mandocello (11); Chuck Fisher on electric guitar (tracks 3-5,9,10), acoustic guitar (6,10), and flamenco guitar (5); Matt Pynn on lap steel guitar (1), pedal steel guitar (4,8), and resonator guitar (4); Rob Loyot on backing vocals (1,7), congas (3,5,10,11), percussion like basket & broom (6,11), tambourine (2,3), and rattles (5); Colin Toomey on electric guitar (2); Jeff Calder on piano (8) and orchestra elements (7); Garret Savluk on trumpet (5). This ensemble, blending core band chemistry with guest flair, creates a textured, spirited backdrop that elevates the material’s emotional and rhythmic punch.

Critically acclaimed as a Top Ten Americana album in 2009, Inverted Valentine was praised for its authentic vigor and homage to vintage styles, boosting the band’s profile in the roots scene. As a Lonesome Day re-issue, it bridges classic country-rock traditions with the group’s fresh momentum, enduring as a fan-favorite.