Shires, Eden release new discs

Take It Like A Man

It's been said (maybe, a little too often) that the best things come to those who wait, but the cliché holds true with Amanda Shires' album "Take It Like A Man," as its second to last song, "Lonely At Night," is also its best selection. It's a piano ballad, in the Bacharach/David tradition, where Shires and her backing vocalists simply shine. It also includes classy horns and electric piano, for an unbeatable sonic mixture. Yes, "Take It Like A ...

For Christmas

The first thing you may notice about Amanda Shires' "For Christmas" album, is just how much piano is on it. Shires is known for her fiddle playing skills, but this album is not the right forum for a lot of fiddle work. However, Shires' enjoyable vocal vibrato is present throughout this 11-track release. All are originals, except for "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve" and "Silent Night." Most of these are story songs, which just happen to take place ...

To the Sunset

You have to give Amanda Shires credit. Raising a child, playing with husband Jason Isbell's band the 400 Unit and still maintaining a solo career is no easy task. Simply keeping the family bond when both partners go their separate ways on tour is hard enough, but for Shires, who has successfully pried herself out from under the shadow of her famous husband, it was likely even harder still. Nevertheless, Shires has reaped her rewards on her own terms. Accorded kudos as Emerging Artist of ...