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Surely the duo of Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush, collectively known as Sugarland, are showing no signs of slowing down nor of wandering far from the path that made "Enjoy the Ride" and "Twice the Speed of Life" such hot-selling previous albums.
The new disc has two versions. The first, which will be released a week before the other, is called the deluxe fan edition and is definitely the one to purchase. Besides containing the same 12 songs the regular release has, the... »»»
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Sammy Walker's sporadic recording career is revived with this highly topical disc. There are references to bisexuality, hip-hop and cancer and songs about global warming, abusive marriages, the murder of Emmett Till, the farming crisis and, of course, 9/11. For good measure, Walker, last heard from 14 years ago, throws in trains, Cherry Coke, William Powell movies, John Prine and Bob Dylan. What's lacking is any real creative fire.
Walker's growly/whiny voice sounds not unlike... »»»
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When Randy Travis' CD is strong, it's extremely strong. But where it's weak, it's unfortunately equally weak. A few of the strong points, however, rank right up there with Travis' best. Travis, who has mostly dedicated himself to singing about his Christian faith of late, nicely finds humor in the conversion experience when he describes a man who is more concerned with filling his belly (one that is growling like a grizzly bear) during "Every Head Bowed," than... »»»
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The Grascals' third record finds them walking the fine line of mixing covers with originals. While the band sounds tight on every song, the cover choices are so strong that they outshine the new material.
A cover of the George Jones' hit "Choices," is a standout. This track is moving and respectful, and the subtle banjo and moaning fiddle work underscore the regret of the lyrics ("now I'm living and dying with the choices I've made")... »»»
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These are prime times for the few, hard times for the many - especially those
with rural addresses. That's the message carried by this collection, bluegrass-heavy but with stops for honky tonk and rock-shaded country, overseen by Del McCoury. It's a point made with no shades of gray on the John Harrell-penned, McCoury Band-delivered title cut and Merle Haggard's "What Happened?" from last year's "Bluegrass Sessions." And it's one presented more... »»»
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Before returning to bluegrass in 1996, Ricky Skaggs had a hugely successful career as a mainstream country artist throughout the 1980's and early 1990's. In a time overrun with artists striving for pop crossover success, Skaggs' high lonesome sound and bluegrass roots prompted Chet Atkins to proclaim him as the man you would save country music. "The High notes," recorded exclusively for Cracker Barrel, takes many of those mainstream hits and resets them in, as the cover... »»»
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Ironies abound in the music industry and the ones involving the death of a musician are often the most poignant. Chris Gaffney is the latest and most heartrending case in point. The well-travelled solo artist/Dave Alvin sideman/Hacienda Brothers front man was diagnosed with liver cancer just as he was beginning to get more recognition for his long and storied career, which began with his first solo albums for HighTone in the mid- to late '80s. And Gaffney's tragic passing back in April... »»»
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In 2005, The Road Hammers marked their birth as a band with an album and a reality TV show. They won awards, sold platinum and spawned several radio hits in Canada. Naturally, they want to repeat the trick, this time breaking into the American market with another reality show ("The Road Hammers" on Great American Country) and an updated version of their debut.
There have been some changes - one main track and some unnecessary
filler were dropped in favor of three new songs - but the... »»»
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Junior Sisk came to the attention of many bluegrass fans with his work on the "Stanley Gospel Tradition" compilation about a decade ago as well as for his work with his short-lived band, (the original) Ramblers Choice. He later joined the already-established bands Lost and Found and more recently Blue Ridge. When Blue Ridge disbanded, Sisk reformed Ramblers Choice, with a talented collection of musicians, including longtime collaborator, Timmy Massey.
Sisk was born to sing... »»»
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Stalwart Texas-based band Reckless Kelly is back with a vengeance on a scorching set of countrified roadhouse rockers. Throughout its 10-plus year career, the band, led by the brother team of Cody and Willy Braun, consistently delivered good albums that move effortlessly between rock and country. But here, Reckless Kelly compiles a memorable set that fires on all cylinders - with enough mainstream appeal to bring the music to a much broader audience without compromising the high standards the... »»»
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Hyperboles such as "stupendous" and "phenomenal" do not do this album justice. Alejandro Escovedo takes listeners on a tour of virtually every musical type and styling. There's rock, pop, cowpunk, straight punk, Tex-Mex, alt.-country, jazz and combinations thereof. It's enough to satisfy the most iconoclastic of musical palates.
Making it more ingratiating is the brilliant songwriting tandem of Escovedo and the gifted Chuck Prophet. Their lyrics are infused with... »»»
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After the departure of talented cellist and big personality Rushad Eggleston, Crooked Still is back with their third release. Eggleston's shoes are filled by Brittney Haas and Tristan Clarridge on fiddle and cello respectively. Both are welcome additions. Haas' fiddle breaks complement Greg Liszt's inventive banjo. Clarridge's rumbling interplay with bassist Corey DiMario manages to be both driving and intricate. The result is consistently interesting and rewards careful and... »»»
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No stranger to bluegrass, Dan Paisley has been on the circuit for many years, first with his father, the well-known Bob Paisley, then taking over as leader of the Southern Grass. In person and on disc, this band shows the polish of years together, including Dan's brother Mike, the Lundy brothers and Don Eldreth Jr. What makes them remarkable in this time of ever-changing band members, is their fathers all played together, too.
You won't find new songs here, but they are all done Paisley style... »»»
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The personality-filled country & western voice of Ruby Dee Philippa, complete with a catch that can weaken even the sturdiest knee, sounds like it's been well-seasoned over the years. If you swallow Philippa's lyrics, that weathering's come courtesy of many tough miles littered with fractured romances and Romeo brush-offs and the resulting scarred hearts and bruised egos. And if you believe the music - it's hard not to - those miles stretch from Bakersfield and Austin to... »»»
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It's unlikely Carter's Chord's "Summer Early '60s" will make country radio. But what Martina McBride did to raise awareness of domestic violence with "Independence Day," this fledgling sister trio of 20s-somethings take it to another level with a gritty, autobiographical song written by their mother about her childhood.
And give Toby Keith credit for letting the sisters - Becky, Emily and Johanna Robertson - record it. It's classic American gothic,... »»»
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Becky Schlegel offers a rich album that's hard to absorb, kind of like eating dessert first. But once heard from start to finish, it's practically addictive. Former farm girl Schlegel hails from South Dakota and now lives in Minneapolis, proving bluegrass isn't about region. It's a sensibility and an attitude, at times wistful, other times gutsy, brought to life here with an angelic voice and plenty of verve. Schlegel's powerful backing band consists of Bo Ramsey on... »»»
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Dan Tyminski, the "Man of Constant Sorrow," is a master of the mournful. In the eight years since his first solo release, "Carry Me Across the Mountain," Tyminski has toured with Alison Krauss on guitar and vocals and recorded with country artists such as Alan Jackson and Dolly Parton. He also found international recognition in the film "Oh Brother" and the subsequent tour.
This project sticks close to the bluegrass genre, but also reflects a country influence... »»»
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Emmylou Harris, the woman with the sweetest voice in country-folk music - who was recently inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame - returns with her first solo record since 2003. A mix of choice covers and originals, this assembles an A list of Nashville players to back Harris, but the most important instrument - her voice - remains the forefront and focus of these 13 songs.
Marked by themes of faith and forgiveness, the disc was recorded with ex-husban Brian Ahern in Music City... »»»
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When Montgomery Gentry entered the scene stomping their hillbilly shoes, their southern rock influences and "couldn't-give-a-damn" attitude shone proudly. After a few years and a few hits, their sound and song choices began to lean heavily toward the radio friendly. With "Back When I Knew It All" the duo promised to get back to the raucous sounds that brought them to the dance. And they almost made it, but not quite.
There are three recurrent themes that pop up:... »»»
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Hit versions of Chip Taylor's composition "Wild Thing" were released by The Troggs, Jimi Hendrix and, most curiously, the rapper Tone-Loc. Now Taylor reciprocates with a "mini-album" (58 minutes, 7 songs plus intros and outtakes) full of cross-genre influences, including the rhymes and sound collages of hip hop and the political themes of '60s folk and rock. Of course, Taylor's vocals have always been a cross between singing and speaking. The couplet structure of... »»»
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The Infamous Stringduster's self-titled effort follows up 2007's "Fork in the Road," which was Album of the Year by the International Bluegrass Music Association. How could The Infamous Stringdusters best such an auspicious debut? Get a new flat-picking guitarist (Andy Falco) and ask another Tim (O'Brien in for Stafford) to produce. Thankfully, the sound follows what promises to be a trend: putting the blues back into bluegrass. The disc clearly bears O'Brien's... »»»
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The Stairwell Sisters lead off with a foot-stomping, hand-clapping instrumental, "Kentucky Winder," showcasing the band's picking and fiddling talents and infectious energy. But the real fun begins when the women add their vocal harmonies to the mix. This collection of originals and old-time folk songs demonstrate the talent of this rompin' and stompin' all-girl string band.
Despite their hard charging intensity, the Stairwell Sisters remain traditionalists at heart... »»»
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West Coast honky tonker James Intveld doesn't enjoy a particularly high profile, and that may not change with his fourth release either. But it won't be because of the quality of the music, which is ultra high. Intveld goes the traditional route throughout, starting off with "Pretty World," recorded by Wynn Stewart. The retro feel continues with "This Place Ain't What It Used to Be" and "Let's Get Started," both of which he co-wrote, the latter with Kostas... »»»
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Thirteen is usually considered to be an unlucky number, but the title of Jim Stringer's new record (which means "love of thirteen") indicates that he feels differently. It's the thirteenth album of a long career, the fourth with his AM Band, itself now in business for neigh on 10 years.
He kicks things off with an instrumental, a cover of Duane Eddy's "Rebel Rouser" that provides a three-minute overview of his musical influences; it's chock full of... »»»
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The beauty of a rubber band is that it is simultaneously flexible, strong, and still holds everything together. While their last album was a straightforward hybrid of bluegrass and country, this finds Ryan Shupe and the Rubberband broadening their tight musical skills, resulting in a complex album that keeps your attention.
The leadoff "Don't Leave Me Lonely," sets a bright tone with its punchy guitar and fiddle backing, while "Be the One," is a sunny, banjo-laden ditty... »»»
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When "the Nashville Sound" emerged in the mid-1950s to stave off the threat of rock and roll, one of the first groups to find success with it was a family trio from Arkansas, The Browns. Jim Ed and sisters Maxine and Bonnie initially found success on a small independent Arkansas label, but soon moved to the big leagues on RCA. It was there, in 1959, working with Chet Atkins, that The Browns recorded their signature song, "The Three Bells." The song quickly went number one on... »»»
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Andy Griggs tries awfully hard to be like the late Waylon Jennings, his friend and mentor, here. While this tougher than leather persona fit the hard as nails Jennings, it's not certain such a grizzled exterior is right for Griggs. For instance, "Tattoo Rose" and "You Can't Drive My Cadillac" are both lusty to the hilt. Is this really the same fresh-faced kid that gave us "She's More" and "You Won't Ever Be Lonely"?
Musically, many of... »»»
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It's probably not kosher to compare a group of Austin musicians to the offerings in a Chinese restaurant. And yet, Band of Heathens offers up such a wide palette on their new disc, making the analogy is, like that second egg roll, just a little too tough too resist. Austin's Band of Heathens delivers a steaming heap of soul-dipped country, country-fried gospel and a couple of other plates they probably haven't even come up with names for yet.
Take "Jackson Station," which... »»»
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When bluegrasser James King wraps his vocals around a gospel song
either as a solo artist or with the supergroup Longview, it's been a hand-in-glove fit. Yet there wasn't quite enough in King's extensive traditional bluegrass catalog to compile a much-requested all-gospel record. With the help of producer Ken Irwin, King solved that. In early 2007, King recorded 6 new numbers - primarily contemporary gospel songs - and the result is, well, heavenly.
In fact, the new stuff not... »»»
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Julianne Hough has spent much of her 19 years building a successful professional dancing career. If her self-titled debut is any indication, she may have a bright future moonlighting as a country singer.
The Utah native's brand of country fits squarely into the young, energetic and playful mold of contemporaries like Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift and Kellie Pickler with light-hearted songs like the single "That Song In My Head" and "You, You, You," which features the... »»»
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Texas singer-songwriter Cory Morrow's last offering is more of the same from him: quality songs with some interesting arrangements. A good example is the opening "He Carries Me" that sounds a bit country, but more roots-y with a cocksure swagger throughout. Morrow's sound is just a bit more polished on the light, summery "I Can Wait" and the somewhat swinging but average "All Said And Done," the latter better suited for Lyle Lovett.
Fortunately, Morrow... »»»
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Perhaps the Old 97's have fallen off your personal music radar. If so, the group's new album - its first in four years and seventh overall - should snap you right back to full attention. This is a career highlight for the Texas quartet.
Produced by Salim Nourallah in his Dallas studio, the disc captures the camaraderie and joy of the longtime friends and an energy that was not really lost on 2004's "Drag it Up," but not in abundance nearly as much as it is here. Chestnuts abound... »»»
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The idea of letting your fans pick the front and back cover photos and title of your greatest hits package could strike the casual observer either as gimmickry or a thank you to the hardcore. Not to mention having thousands of your fans fork over a few bucks to be listed as executive producers, albeit for charity. Fortunately, for Bentley, this effort does not come off as calculated.
He accumulated a slew of excellent songs in a career continuing on the upward trajectory... »»»
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There's a retro feel to the third release from the New England band Girls Guns and Glory with touches of pop, rockabilly and country. Lead singer Ward Hayden's plaintive vocals are at times reminiscent of Dwight Yoakam and Roy Orbison. The Yoakam influence is most prominent on the title track, "Keep On Calling" and "Temptation." "Suzie" could have been a hit for Orbison in the 60's, and the closing track "Unrequited Love" also features Orbisonesque vocals... »»»
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Blake Shelton is one of those artists just bubbling under superstar status. In a quiet, dependable way, each of his releases (this is his fourth) has done very well. But he either scores a big number one hit ("Austin") or scatters a few small ones ("Ol Red") every time.
For the present, a repackaging with three new tracks, Shelton offers another solid effort of roadhouse romps and lover's laments. While the album works overall, Shelton shows far more comfort on fast tracks... »»»
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Though but a teenager, Sierra Hull has already joined the ranks of accomplished young mandolin virtuosos. She picks it fast, but clean and with tone, taste, and timing typical of a far more experienced player. Her lightening licks on "Smashville" and "Hullarious" are surely Chris Thile influenced.
Hull has a voice of adolescence and innocence, but she is quite professional. Her vocals recall Alison Krause a few years back. Producer Ron Block of Union Station and Hull... »»»
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This is the definitive collection for bluegrass legend Larry Sparks. This 14-song CD is culled from his many great albums of the past, including those he recorded for the King Bluegrass in the mid 1970's and for Rebel over the past 3 decades.
Also included are three songs not previously available on CD - "Blue Ridge Cabin Home" from the 1975 King Bluegrass LP "Sparklin' Bluegrass," "Bound To Ride" from the 1976 King Bluegrass LP "You Could Have... »»»
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Dave Evans is no stranger to bluegrass. He got his start with familiar names like Larry Sparks and the Boys From Indiana, but has been out on his own for almost three decades. This CD is a reissue of his earliest work with a regional label, Vetco.
His songs stand the test of time. Known as one of the most soulful singers in bluegrass, what you hear on his recordings is just what you hear sitting under the trees at a festival. His music is a crowd pleaser: you hear fans calling out for "99... »»»
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This disc, which features Tillis riding his horse Pepper on the cover, contains its share of highlights. One in particular, "Lying Time Again," smartly rhymes its title with a popular hit by substituting "lying" for "crying." Tillis' full-bodied vocals bring out the lyric's pathos when he moans, "Lord, the stories never end/And it's lying time again." With "This Is Me," Tillis distances himself from all the prior losers in a woman's life... »»»
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Fortunately, the album "Copperhead Road" has had a better 20 years than its author, Steve Earle. While Earle dealt with his own professional and personal demons, which included a stint in prison, his 1988 release sounds as vital in this special reissue as it did two decades ago.
This two-disc set captures the studio Earle of that period intact just as "Copperhead Road" was originally released. Besides the title cut, which was and still is a radio fixture, there is "The... »»»
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