Vagrants & Kings (Sustain, 2008)

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 shines on the stronger "Love Finds Everyone" and the slower, plodding "Lord You Devil," which finds a laidback, relaxing groove right off the bat. But perhaps the best thing about this record is that Morrow brings more to the table with each passing song, especially the somewhat rougher and ragged rocker "Getting' Ready To Rain" and the Delta blues-tinged "Ten Mile Road" that sounds like something Big & Rich might do without the aid of dozens of producers yearning for a glossy single.

Although there are some pleasing, radio-friendly tunes, the ones listeners might consider throwaways or fillers are the real stars here, especially the melodic, Americana "Radiates" that is one of the few songs Morrow penned by his lonesome. A few more of those, and this would be a great album. As it stands now though it's pretty good.