Revolutions (Atlantic, 1999)

Although The Great Divide, an Oklahoma foursome, mention influences from Springsteen to Steve Earle, John Mellencamp to Joe Ely, their sound is more akin to a more countrified, harder-edged version of the BoDeans. Although there are some good country tracks, quite a few are more rock than country.

One of those rocking tracks is "Crows," which sounds like it has the greatest "hit" potential. "Nowhere Woman," though slower and not as strong as "Crows," could also comfortably fit the Americana or Adult Hit Contemporary format.

The skilled hand of producer Lloyd Maines is present throughout; Maines contributes mightily on guitar and steel guitar to enhance the country sound. "Over The Rain" is a standout country tune, with a gorgeous steel guitar track. "College Days" sounds like a throwback to s70's southern rock. But they also display their country roots with an old-time gospel tune, "Mr. Devil," recalling a travelling tent revival show. One can almost hear the crowd shouting "Hallelujah!" Unfortunately, there are also a number of throwaways and no readily identifiable sound that sets this band apart. So while this disc shows great effort and no small amount of talent, it doesn't seem "Revolutions" will revolutionize country music.