Texicana Jukebox

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The Cowboy & The Mermaid

Jimmy Baldwin

This second outing for Jimmy is a good one.  His first CD, Somebody's Nobody, is a bit different from this one as it has more rock 'n roll.  The CD was created in the spacious beauty of west Texas, and its first three tracks, "Barbwire Halo", "Dream Chaser" and the title track, "The Cowboy and the Mermaid", express it.   The pace picks up in tracks 4 & 5, "The Train (song)" and "Who Put the K in Kountry".  Track 6, "Brown Paper Koozie Blues", is a story about drinking away lost love.  I found it a bit comical for when recently purchasing a 24 oz. beer in a store, the clerk asked if I wanted it in a brown bag.

More reggae is found onto track 7, "Without You", and I will add that Jimmy does a nice job with reggae.  The mention of beauty earlier is found again on track 9, "Melancholy Angel".  To answer it's lyrical content, I hope she finds her love and it's forever.

"Adam" (the last soldier) is the sad story of the war to end all wars, and of wars, there is no end.  "Let Your Light Shine Now" (track 11), provides us with a good theme and a bit of rock 'n roll.  The overcoming of evil and those wars would be best addressed as stated in "Let Your Light Shine Now".

Congratulations to all the musicians who have very well complimented Mr. Baldwin, and as for Jimmy's own comment, I agree, "These guys get it".

You can find more on Jimmy at www.jimmybmusic.com.

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, May 2008

Not Crazy Tonight

R. G. Stark

Hopefully, we can say Not Crazy Tonight in appreciation of this CD and not literally go there mentally.  For both today and tonight, this CD is good listening. R.G. has put together something unique for the music world.  This music is like a lazy hot day down on the border, and musically, seems to be Tex/Mex with a bit of 50's and early 60's thrown in. 

The opener, "Mineral Wells", has got a great feel to it and beckons one to visit Mineral Wells.  If you would like a slow dance with a stranger, "Secret Girl" (track 3) provides her for you.  The dark side of life comes when listening to "Narcocorrido Nuevo Laredo", track 5, of which (the dark side) sadly exists.

The recording/production/musicianship is done well and has a simple and live feel to it that is very appealing.  There are plenty of easy going pieces on the CD, but on "Monterrey" (track 8), the pace is picked up with the interest in a woman. R.G. starts bummin' out to tell us the story of folks who can't make amends because of their pride on "Too Proud", and we've all seen or even done that. Continuing on with sad slow pieces is "Abbeville" for track 10, and finally ending with the title cut #11, "Not Crazy Tonight". 

 If you would like to mellow out in a cantina down on the border, then pick up Not Crazy Tonight today.

You can find out more about R.G. Stark at www.rgstark.com or http://www.myspace.com/rgstark and purchase his CD at http://cdbaby.com/cd/rgstark.

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, April 2008

Second Sight

Corinne West

On first sight of Ms. West, she appears to be a beautiful woman with a great voice fronting a superb group.  You may be able to see quite easily my enjoyment of this music, and on second sight, the love for it continued.  What we have been blessed with here is bluegrass at its core that ventures out a bit into other genres.  Supporting Ms. West are musicians of superb talent and, of note, would be guys like Jerry Douglas and Mike Furtado.  On into Second Sight, she gives us hindsight of her past and would she do it again, Track 2 "Hell Yes". I saw a poster recently that reflected the same idea, for it said, "Some people take chances in life not to escape it, but to experience it."  Tracks 3 and 4, "Hand Full Of Gold" and "Cabin Door", exhibit both the beauty in her vocals and also that of the musicians.  Frolicking joy in bluegrass shows itself in Track 5 "Gandy Dancer".  Beauty again, but with the sadness of having to move on, tell their tale on "Roses To Rust".  Track 7, "Lost and Found", has a wonderful feel and a Johnny Cash like rhythm going on...delightful.  As one can see, I can go on and on writing nothing but good things about this CD. Just one more for you on the tracks. Track 10, "All Good Things", reminds me of Jerry Garcia, who used the same phrase in a song and who cut his teeth in folk/bluegrass.  Go out and get this CD.  You will like it at first sight, second sight and in hindsight.

Corinne's website is http://www.corinnewest.com/index.php or http://www.myspace.com/corinnewest

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, March 2008

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, March 2008

Lovin' Pretty Women

Steep Canyon Rangers

This is sure enough good stuff!  Bluegrass comes from Kentucky, and this goes well with its tobacco and its snuff.  Wonderful instrumentation accompanied with exceptionally fitting vocals are riding on the tracks of this CD.  One could find himself hootin' up in the hollow or howling in the canyon listening to these boys.  The fantasy of many men is found on the title track, "Lovin' Pretty Women" Track 2, like they say,  "I've got pennies in my pocket and big dreams in my head", perhaps a Midnight Cowboy type thing. Track 4, "Call The Captain",  another Kentucky roots thing about the coal mines. "Be Still Moses", (track 6) is a beautiful song, great vocals with just as nice back up vocals to boot.  Of a particular fancy with me is "Don't Ease Me In", (track 8), a great cover of a tune I have been singing myself for many years.  Onto some really good instrumental work on "Kuykendall", track 10, where one can see what a Ranger sees; the canyon may be steep, but the view is worth it!  Last but not least, another good one, "Pickin' On Josh" (track 12) about life on the road rounds her out.  All I can say is buy this one, let her stay and let her play.  Congrats to the boys one and all, for everything about this CD stands tall.

Visit their website or their MySpace to get the CD or find out more about this band.

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, September 2007

Paradiso Loco

Effron White

Sticker Freak Records

Effron has apparently picked up a number of awards at various songwriters events, of which by listening to Paradiso Loco, one can see why.  In comparison with younger artists, maturity is found here with a wide spectrum of subject matter being covered.  He opens with an odd piece, "Big Northern Murder", a ballad about murder by tying a woman to the railroad tracks.  Interesting lines incur such as, "No chains heavier than guilt and despair" and "I never knew what a man was capable of til I let myself break the laws of love".  One quickly can see the maturity I mentioned.

"Black Window" (track 3), gives depth in feeling both musically and lyrically as he conveys a broken heart and wanting her back again.  Effron, like so many others, has been compared to the likes of Dylan and Guy Clark, and I hear those undertones in his music.  Wonderful musicianship ala banjo is found in track 1 and again on track 4, "Angel", but also found throughout the CD.

Contained within the tracks is really nice dobro, banjo, guitar and, of course, bass and drums.  "Arkansas Wine (track 5) tells of the serenity found on the porch swing with his gal, in comparison with Dallas where, "The street couldn't feel me shakin, the neon didn't know I was aching, but without you I was just faking".  Stories of pain, foolish one night stands, murder, the clowns around town, and not being able to keep a good man down like track 7, "You Can't Kill A Man Like That".  The aforementioned clowns around town is found in track 9, "Going Loco Bein' Local", a good little country rocker.

If you are looking for good stories about life itself combined with good music you can find it here.  This one is worth far more than just a listen, for when it comes to music, this one does glisten.

You can purchase this CD at www.EffronWhite.com or go to www.myspace.com/effronwhitemusic for more info on this artist.

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, August 2007

Drive

Exit 110

Siesta Ranch Records

To begin, as far as I know this CD is this band's second outing.  I do remember in the first CD they had "that feeling", which is at least half the battle.  Now they have that with a sense of maturity in the overall picture of music.  The first 3 tracks appear to be about love one way or another.  Track 3, "Help Of This Bottle", is a decent story of courage found in whiskey with a sound that should be received well in a top 40 format.  Track 4, "Always The Same", continues with the same theme but about a guy who keeps messing up relationships and is not learning from his mistakes.  In track 5, "The River Song" gives us a good day tubing down the Guadalupe River and "living on Guadalupe time".  The theme is changed for track 7.  "Run Away", is a typical story of being young/wild and the loss of some friends while now learning to mellow out and finding one's way.  The kicker on Drive is the cover of "Folsom Prison Blues" (track 9).  A re-creation of this song finds it really hip and cool, one of which I believe Johnny would have approved.  On to the title track (11) , "Drive" is alright and speaks of a man whom finds satisfaction being on the road and just driving.  Finally track 12 ends the CD with "Sabinal" and the fondness of childhood, family and south Texas, of which to a certain degree I share with them the same.  If CD's were fish and this was a pond, Drive is not the largest of fish, but it's definitely a keeper.

You can hear a few of their songs and learn more about this band at www.myspace.com/exit110band.

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, August 2007

Dollar  Theatre Movie

Drew Kennedy

Sustain Records

It has taken me a few listens to this CD to get warmed up to it.  The vocals are a bit rough, (though my grandma used to say Willie and Johnny Cash couldn't sing either), but the music is warm and friendly.  Apparently, this is his second effort of which he and the record company probably have high hopes, and I wish them well.  The more I listen, at times I find myself wanting to sing along and enjoy some of the melodies.  He has a mix of good stuff and some more commercial stuff, but it is all done well.

There are bits and pieces that remind me of other artists like Neil Young, Waylon Jennings and, amazingly, Van Morrison.  There are some interesting catch phrases like in track two's, " Ramblin' Heart", where he says "If you're gonna' take the long way home, you better make good time."  Track five, "Baytown", kind of opens like the Allman Brothers' "Sweet Melissa" and immediately adds a horn a bit like Van Morrison; then moves into a kind of hip hop beat.  Something borrowed, perhaps, in track seven, " New Me",  in which the opening chords are like that of Lou Reed doing "Sweet Jane", but rapidly moves to its own and tells a good story of a man that has changed for the better.

 Speaking again of vocals...Robert Earl Keen is a success, and I don't think anybody would say he is a great vocalist.  Track eight, "Can't Slow Down" has that wonderful howl in the beginning, an emotional sound that has always moved me.  Mr. Kennedy includes some nice banjo and pedal steel within these tracks, like track nine "Like A Thief".  More of that modern country hip hop style is in track eleven, "Take me Home", which is done very well.  "Tomorrow's Not Tonight", track twelve, talks about enjoying tonight and not worrying bout tomorrow and features some nice fiddle.  Finally, the CD ends with a self explanatory title "Second Time Around", speaking of some things in life that are on their second time around.  With that, I believe that the more times this CD spins, the better it sounds.

Check it out further at drewkennedymusic.com or sustainrecords.com.

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, April 2007

Blind Man Walking

Cadillac Sky

Skaggs Family Records

To start, this recording comes to us through the Skaggs Family Records, which is a plus already.  The artwork in the CD package could certainly be what a blind man sees in his mind.  Did anybody ever just put on their headphones, close their eyes, kick back and then just let the mind move?  Perhaps there, one can find a Cadillac Sky.

The first three tracks certainly give us that high lonesome sound with very high, lonesome vocals.  Listening to the entire CD, one will find young but very well accomplished musicians putting thought into the singing/writing and performance of these songs.  Track 4, "Homesick Angel", is a very beautiful but sad song seemingly about the loss of a child, and is certainly one of the best on this album in my opinion.  These boys cover an abundance of themes like the aforementioned "Homesick Angel" and Track 3, "You Again", about a criminal who can't get away from crime.  Track 2, "Insomnia Blues" is self explanatory; Track 8, "Redbird" is about hope overcoming pain and Track 9, "Motel Morning" reminds us there's no place like home.  Foiled plans caused by the weather in Track 10, "Can't Trust The Weatherman", is like I say, The Lord plays jokes with the weatherman.  A tribute to Bill Monroe, (I think)  is Track 11, "Never Been So Blue", to which the song and Bill, I give a big thanks!  The simplest of lives is found within Track 12, "Mountain Man", of which most of us will never understand the completeness found in its simplicity.  Last but not least to be mentioned is Track 6, "Neighborhood Bully's Long Look In The Mirror" is a wonderful look in the mirror of progressive music/bluegrass.  Thanks to all involved in this production!

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, April 2007

This is one of the hottest bluegrass bands in the country right now and you can find out more about Cadillac Sky and/or purchase this CD at www.cadillacsky.net

Honky Tonk Singer

Buddy Lewis

Ozark Records

This CD is from an Arkansas fellow recorded, appropriately, on Ozark Records. This music is quite fitting to an old honky tonk with some older honky tonkin' types out for a bit of drinkin' and dancin'.  As I listened to this really nice, classic music, I envisioned my folks out on the dance floor having a wonderful time.  The music is relatively simple with usual themes that are just gentle on one's mind.

Buddy gives you a good bang for your buck with 14 tracks, each one being worth the price.  "I Did-I Will-I Do" is Track 1, a beautiful love song backed up by Track 2's tragic tale of a once hot shot honky tonk artist who's fame and fortune has ended hanging around a local bar.  More hard living is found in the life of a "Honky Tonk Singer", the title track on Track 3.  Just for the locals, "Down In Dallas", Track 4 gives you a story of lost love down in Dallas.  A familiar theme "Don't Look Back",  for Track 5 is the advice given from a down and out brown bagging fellow.  "Better Times Are Coming", the title of Track 9, gives the hope held out to a young man by his mother.  Thank God for the unchanging love of good mamas.  My Daddy (a great man) understands, like sadly so many others do, Track 10, "He Never Was Afraid", the return of a Vietnam vet to a country that did not understand.  More lost love is found on Track 11, "Mirror On The Wall".  Country rockin' on the song written about a woman named "Jeanie" for Track 13.  The final cut 14, "Adios My Compadre", ends this wonderful CD.  I did not have any information about the accompanying musicians, but they all deserve a HATS OFF!  So for great classic stuff from a classic sort of musician/singer/songwriter, this is a recommended buy from me.

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, March, 2007

Check out Buddy Lewis at www.buddylewismusic.com or click here to purchase this CD

Who's Bad Now

Michael ONeill

Michael ONeill's Who's Bad Now ain't too bad.  From what my small brain can figure this is a Washington state offering that deserves a good nod from the Texas scene.  Ten tracks in all with the opening track as the title cut, with the last track being an acoustic version of the same.  There are numerous tracks that deserve a run on the charts, and perhaps, some national exposure.  Michael is riding the cowboy theme with the CD's rodeo artwork and a saloon sign included within the photos.

 The chart formula is quickly heard thru the title track, "Who's Bad Now" and track 2's "Chance".  You get the name dropping going on in track 3, "Cowboy Ride", though it is the town name dropping and those of the midwest, northwest and plain north.  The song has a nice melody, decent fiddle playing and could be a beer drinkin' sing along.  Good old beer drinkin' honky tonkin' is found on track 4, "I Don't Remember".  There is liveliness and excitement found as the song says ,"way past Waco running down 35"  for track 5, which is "Austin".

He does a nice cover of Little Feat's "Dixie Chicken" on track 6 with the old "ioko ioko" thrown in, good stuff!  "96 Tears" is track 7, a good listenable song that deserves airplay that speaks of love that is both hard to hold on to and hard to let go of.  Though it is a totally different song, the title does ring of the old "96 Tears" by Question Mark and the Mysterians.  Track 8 gives us another good love song, "Run To The Sea", nothing superficial like a typical pop/pop country love song, just good stuff.  Winding down gives us "Better" for track 9 that gives us the truth of one who has been broken and all the jive one has to deal with in life- though just a smile and a little praise makes one feel much "Better".  I would suggest the listening of this CD to others, even your sisters and brothers.  Who's Bad Now is pretty good.

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, March 2007

Visit Michael ONeill at www.myspace.com/whosbadnow

or www.michael-oneill.com

Slidin' Home

John Starling & Carolina Star

Rebel Records

What can one say, words cannot express my feelings when  it comes to great music.  This one is a success.  I looked with some anticipation and interest in this CD having spent a number of years in Virginia, since this CD comes from Charlottesville.  These boys were part of Seldom Scene, a D.C. band that used to make appearances in the Hampton roads, of which I once lived along with working in Charlottesville for two years.  The musicianship/production/recording here gives you the teacher, the class and the graduate school alumni.  The artwork of the Blue Ridge mountains is as beautiful as the mountains themselves lending the theme of sliding home with the ballpark center stage.

Ten tracks in all and each one a beautiful diamond in the ballpark mounted gracefully in the ring of the music.  It opens with a Jimmie Rodgers number "Waitin' For A Train", that gives mention of the Lone Star state in its lyrics. Track 2's "Cold Hard Business" is a realistic look at the downside of some
management types that rake the artist over the coals.  Track 3 "South Riding Tango", is an instrumental  I'd love to hear opened up for it lends fond memories of my old dog on a rabbit chase.  A beautiful song is found on Track 4, "In My Hour Of Darkness", accompanied by another Virginia girl, Ms. Emmy Lou Harris, just beautiful.  A couple of love songs,  lost and broken ones for Track 6, "They'll Never Take Her Love From Me" and Track 7  "Those Two Blue Eyes".  We're back to the Virginia area again (D.C.) to do a really nice cover of Lowell George's (Little Feat) "Willin'" for Track 8.  Sadly, I can remember exactly where I was in Virginia when I heard Lowell had died.  "Irish Spring" is Track 9, another wonderful instrumental that speaks of the joy of an Irish spring perhaps with some Guinness and a little Jameson to boot.  Ending the CD is Track 10, "Prayer For My Friends", a song that expresses the love and prayers for friends, some whom are gone.  Hats off to all involved in this CD, it's an honor to review and a special treat to hear.

This CD was just released on February 20th, so get your copy now.

Find out more at www.myspace.com/johnstarlingandcarolinastar and www.rebelrecords.com

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, February 2007

Bluegrass

Jim Lauderdale

At first, Jim's vocals in a bluegrass band sounded odd to me, but after a few spins he sounded just fine in this setting.  I did have some personal interest in this, knowing that Jim has done some work with Robert Hunter [Garcia/Hunter] .  To say there is wonderful instrumentation would be an understatement, for such is the case in bluegrass music as a whole.  Numerous musicians and a couple of vocalist accompany him on the 13 tracks contained on this disc.  Musicians from very well known bluegrass labels, Rounder and Sugar Hill.  The songs are largely written by Jim but he also "gets by with a little help from his friends".  Largely love songs, lost love songs and breaking up songs and a couple other themes.  Themes as on Track 4, "I Shouldn't Want You So Bad", about strong desire for somebody and Track 8, "There Goes Bessie Brown", something of a tragedy and someone's life who got stuck there and can't move on.  Track 10, "It's So Different" about things not being what they seemed, and Track13, "Where They Turn Around" about planning to turn around in life like where the trains turn around.  Again, I could say wonderful instrumentation accompanying good songs with suiting vocals by Jim Lauderdale.  If you are a fan of his or a bluegrass fan, you should consider this one, it is quite listenable.

Visit Jim's website at www.jimlauderdale.com for info on how to purchase this CD and more about Jim and his music.

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, November 2006

Doubleshot on Lauderdale!!

Country Super Hits-Volume 1

Jim Lauderdale

Mr. Lauderdale has a wonderful voice for honky tonk music and opens this hits package with "Honky Tonk Mood Again".  All of his songs are co-written with others but mainly with Odie Blackman.  Jim seems able to blend other forms of music into his country from time like Mr. Merle Haggard does.  For instance, the jazz found on track 13, "She's Got Some Magic Going On", and the Americana music found on track 6 "You Got Me Right Where You Want Me". Lyrically it's the story of what my wife did for me.  Great caution is found on track 4, "Cautious", been there myself and one must learn the old adage, "it is better to error on the side of caution".  There is nothing pretentious about this project, just good honest music.  Good ole basic country theme can be found playing itself out on track 8, "Single Standard Time".  This CD is as it says... "Super Hits", for there are definitely no misses found here.  The only miss perhaps found would be one not being a fan of Jim Lauderdale.

Visit Jim's website at www.jimlauderdale.com for info on how to purchase this CD and more about Jim and his music.

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, November 2006

American Stories, Lies and Tales

Doug Spartz & Friends

This is a wine that taste just fine, a great vintage presented by a voice that sounds well aged.  Mr. Spartz is sharing this wine as a host of a party that includes quite a few guests.  The list includes the writer of "Hot Rod Lincoln", {Charlie Ryan}, and the writer of "Sunshine" {Jonathon Edwards} to name just a couple party goers.

The CD opens with a beautiful cover of a Fred Eaglesmith song, "Number 29" and a cover of Mr. Dylan's "Love Minus Zero", which is quite great, too.  For the Texas crowd he has a wonderful swing piece on track 2 called "Nuthin Much".  Another beautiful piece, but sad is the story about a young fellow not returning home from war called "Name On The Wall" {track 5}.  There are six tracks of original music by Mr. Spartz that are equally quite good songs.  The musicianship is first rate along with quite an array of instruments used in this production.  You get your money and your music's worth with 16 tracks worth every penny.  All great American stories even if some of them are lies and tales.  Before I forget, check out the old pop rocker Mr. Vee's  "Bop Alena" on track 12 for some good ole rock n roll.

You can visit Doug Spartz's website at www.dougspartz.com and purchase his CD at www.cdbaby.com.

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, October 2006

Somebody's Nobody

Jimmy Baldwin

To start, it's a debut album of Texas music brought forth with a bit of notoriety. The CD was mixed and mastered by a known Austin fellow, Fred Remmert, and recorded by a known Dallasite, Clay Pendergrass, not to pass over the wonderfully creative covers on the CD case.  The twelve musical tracks are unique and well done.  It is a mixed bag of sorts, but in sorting through the bag, one will find some good stuff.  Do you like rock 'n roll?  The opening track "Asterisk Smile" is about girls who won't give you the time of day and will wet your whistle.  Track 2, "Cinderella", is worthy of a run on the Texas charts or just as well suited in Americana.  Tex Mex is found on track 3, "Ganja Girl" that's self explanatory, it's a smoker.  Lost love on track 4, "My Lone Star Girl" being sung about a love that is still glowing and the hurt is showing.  Back to that ganja thing, reggae is again found on track 5, "I know You" and an incredible cover of "Guitars and Cadillacs" that would make Bob
Marley smile, and hopefully, Dwight Yoakam, too, who wrote the song.  Rock 'n roll is again playing loud on the "Merry Go Round", which is track 6.  The next track, "Be My Girl", voices the hope of love found being wonderful, and we've all been there.  The Tex Mex flavoring is again evident on "I Can't Wait Another Day (Maria)" with a bona fide trip across the border with track 10's "Ride On".  "Comes A Rain", the next to last track (11), speaks of a man trying to weather the storms of life.  With that said, I hope this artist weathers the storms of the music business.  I congratulate Mr. Baldwin on a job well done for he definitely has put the "art" in artist and captured my imagination as Bob Dylan's "Time Out Of Mind".  For the diversified music fan, I say buy it, buy it, buy it.

Visit Jimmy Baldwin's website

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, October, 2006

Trams Continental

American Royal

This CD is very commercial, one listen and it shows.  It is very well performed, produced and recorded.  Not exactly the type of tea that I put into my cup, but it's time for a review, so let's find out what's up.  In a promotion piece on these guys, they are called an acoustic pop group.  I have not been much of a pop anything since like '74, but this CD does do what it is promoted to do, mainly just song after song with something about love in one form or another.  Track 3, "Right Girl Wrong Time" sounds like it belongs as a theme song for some show like Friends.  Track 4, "Good bye-Good Luck", does have a nice funky rhythm with a nice little guitar riff pushed thru some sound effect.  These boys have a cast of supporting musicians from various popular groups like The Dixie Chicks, John Cougar and even ole Jack Ingram.  This music would be well suited on Top 40 be it Pop or Country, which is sometimes the same. These guys were raised up around Kansas City and cut this CD in Dallas.  As I was saying earlier, Track 8, "Never Let You Go (This Time)" was actually selected as title track for a movie called You Did What.  For what it is, I guess it's ok, though once again, I do say it's not the kind of tea I put in my cup.

Check them out at http://www.americanroyal.com

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, June, 2006

Fabletown

Tim Scott

This CD kind of comes at ya like a stranger that takes some time getting to know.  As a prophetic word spoken, a neighbor whom fits that same description just walked by.  This music is well done and completely written by the artist..  This one is called Fabletown, but a lot of these tracks could easily be wearing human shoes.  Track 1,"The Old Man Walked Away",  is a good song story and has a good feel to it that could easily be stretched out into a great fifteen minute jam piece.  Track 2 "Life With Lyndon",  is a pretty song about a life wasted and gone that had great potential.  The song includes very nice fiddle and harmonica.  The title cut, "Fabletown", starts out like something out of an old saloon and goes on to have Tim creating fables on his own life.  This music has a sound of its own...unique and individual, but one must ask himself is this fact or have you stepped into fabletown?  Track 6 is an upbeat fable titled "Sweet Marie".  Like other fantasy numbers, The Stones "Girl With
The Far Away Eyes", The Band's "Up On Cripple Creek", to name just two of many.  But unlike other fantasy girls, this one shoots him dead in the end, a strange twist.  How bout a good ole train song found on track 10, "Ol' Train Whistle".  The song says maybe she's crying out to you, and I would ask maybe she's wanting  you to climb on board to Fabletown.  "Hint of Grace" is track 9 that reads like poetry of a love that never found  one to love.  This music was recorded down around Austin, it's got potential.  I hope it finds it's way to The City Limits Stage.  The final track called "Don't Be Alarmed" could fit into a number of formats such as Texas country, alt. country or jam. It's not done with smoke, mirrors or Shazam- it's just good music out of Fabletown.  The music has slide and glide so crank her up and take her out for a ride.

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, June 2006

Editor's Note:  Fabletown was recorded in New Braunfels with the local hill country musicians; Michael O’Connor (lead guitar for Slaid Cleaves and Susan Gibson), Jeff Plankenhorn (dobro for Ray Wylie Hubbard, Eliza Gilkyson, and Bruce Robison), Keith Carper (bass for Hal Ketchum), Nick Wallisch on drums, percussion and recorder, Johnny Arredondo (drummer for Ray Wylie Hubbard), Richard Bowden on fiddle, John Santos on harmonica and Pat O’Bryan on keyboards.

Back To The Well

Lee Roy Parnell

To open, I must say I was taken back a bit by this one.  My first response was, "oh no, not that commercial stuff".  The title track, "Back To The Well", opens the CD with a Texas top 40 kinda sound with a bit of a hip hop beat, but has some great guitar playing.  Lee Roy does possess talent as a singer, song writer and guitar player.  All the songs he has written well with a little bit of help here and there, along with excellent production that he did himself.  His accompanying musicians deserve some praise as well, for they, too, have done a fine job.  This contains music and writing that has depth of heart, he puts his feelings into his singing and writing.  Love songs are almost a given in any type of music and he has included some good ones.  Track 2, "Something Out of Nothing, Track 3, "Just Lucky That Way", Track 8, "Breaking The Chain", and Track 11's, "Saving Grace".  You can hear a touch of that blue eyed soul poking it's head out in some of the tracks.  These songs like Track 3, "Just Lucky That Way", have the sound of a man of whom life has tempered a bit. Into some good blues based jazz Track 5, "Don't Write It Down",  will take care of ya.  It has a Delbert McClinton funky blues about it with Lee Roy's guitar that rivals ole Dickey Betts.  Continuing with that genre Track 7, "You Can't Lose Them All", actually does the Allman Brothers blues jazz style just fine.  Not taking anything away from Lee Roy, the two aforementioned tracks stand quite well on their own.  Track 9 moves on into an upbeat piece called "The Hunger", which is a nice take on the underdogs of the world.  Track 10, "That's All There Is", is like the male answer to a Bonnie Raitt piece done equally as well.  Finally the closing Track 12, "Cool Breeze", is just as it says... a cool breeze.  It's a beautiful bluesy jazz instrumental piece. "Cool Breeze" sports great guitar and spectacular Hammond B3 playing by Mr. Kevin McKendree.  Once again, I was taken back a bit by this CD, it was not at all what it seemed.  Looking at this one from purely a musical standpoint you can quickly see it has been redeemed.

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, June, 2006
 

New Tattoo

John Cowan Band

Among bluegrass fans Mr. John Cowan is well known, especially among the progressive types.  The title cut, "Carla's Got a New Tattoo", certainly doesn't fit any traditional format.  Over 20 years ago, I had some live material from John's New Grass revival days, and to say the least, they were over the top.  I have affectionately called his former band The Grateful Dead of Bluegrass.  Track 2 fits back into the more traditional sense of this music, "Love's Like Rain."  Track 3, "Misery To Happiness," definitely gets into a progressive sound.  John has a notably distinctive, good voice and the accompaniment from his band on Track 4, "Hurting Sure", is great.   Many know of the continued success of New Grass's boys, Sam Bush and Bela Fleck, and this band obviously possess some of that same talent.

There's wonderful playing: guitar by Jeff Autry, mandolin by Wayne Benson, fiddle and mandolin by Luke Balm, fiddle by Shad Cobb, bass by John, and last but not least, banjo by Norm Pikely.  Most of the songs are written by other songwriters, with the exceptions being Track 6, "6 Red Birds (In a Joshua Tree)" and the final cut, "Drown."  Track 7 rolls back to more traditional music with its coal miner's roots, "Workin' In The New Mine."  Tracks 8 and 10, "Back to Your Arms" and "Tomorrow Morning", are very beautiful love songs.  The final cut, "Drown," is a very sad but true song about the sexual abuse John lived through himself in his childhood.  John has now bared the sadder side of his life and has joined with Project Safe Place to reach out to and help those who also have been abused. If you enjoyed New Grass, then you'll definitely like this album.  I hope one day I can see these boys live.

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, June, 2006
 

The Family Man

Frankie Miller

Well, once again, what can I say?  It's an honor to listen to this music and a privilege to do a review.  Like the aged whiskey they say is the best, here is some wonderfully aged, classic country.  From what I understand, a lot of the older music in this country has been pushed to the wayside.  But a lot of the artists still make a living in Europe, a message of which the notes on this CD agree.  These tracks are well done and/or covered songs by Frankie himself, with others by Hal Bynum, Tom T. Hall, Johnny Cash, and last but not least, A.P. Carter

The opening track, "Too Hot to Handle", is the story of a high-maintenance woman he can't please.  (I personally joke that they are called "high maintenance" because a man later realizes he must have been high when he thought he could maintain her.)  There are broken love songs, like Track 8, "There's a Song on the Jukebox", and Track 12, "I Flew Over Our House"; love songs; drinking songs; good ole days songs, like Track 4, "Old Side of Town"; and finally, as the title says, "Family Man", sung on Track 5.  Just good music, musicians, and corresponding country themes.  I found a note that said Frankie sometimes played at the Ernest Tubb record store in Ft. Worth. What a treat that would be today.  Thank God and a tip of the hat for the music of men like Mr. Miller -- and I'll have a Lone Star on that!

Go to this site to find out more about Frankie Miller and order this CD.

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, June, 2006
 

Down in Texas Today

Curtis Potter

This CD is the epitome of "classic country" - one song after another. The first cut, "One Away From One Too Many Heartaches", had me immediately thinking what great music.  This man has a great voice that reminds of Ray Price.  In my opinion, the largest part of what gets on the air be it country, rock, pop or whatever form the music, be in both older and new alike, few can really sing, but Mr. Curtis Potter is an exception.  Not much info within the CD package, mainly just musicians names and recording info.  It does indicate that many of these songs are from earlier recordings, and from what I can see, are from other writers.  I'm no country music expert though I do notice Hank Cochran and Hal Bynum songs. Track 3, "I Wish It Was Easy Going Home", a wonderful song about a young man who has set out on his own.  The road has been long and hard, and he misses being home as a youngster.  I share the same sentiment with the writer and treasure my time with my family.  This CD would make a nice gift for my own dad whom played music like this in our home when I was a young pup back in the 60's.  It is full of love and broken love songs all performed, produced and recorded very well.  It contains it's Texas numbers, Tracks 5 and 12,"If This Was Texas", and the title track "Down In Texas Today", respectively.  He does cross the border on Track 10 with "Oklahoma Sunshine".  So if you'd like to put a little swing into your two step while possibly cryin' in your beer then this one's for you...Curtis Potter-Down In Texas Today.

Find out more about Curtis Potter at this website.
 

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, June, 2006

Long Gone Thrill

Lost Country

Sixty Miles From Dallas

Exit 110

To open, I must say these boys would be great on a Saturday night.  Best suited for a small theatre or a good bar to have a few beers and a good time. They possess a rougher and natural feel, and I hope they keep it.  We all know what happens to most music when a group makes it big.  Does anybody remember New Riders of the Purple Sage?  They kinda remind me a bit of them.  Good all original material, written mainly the lead vocalist, Michael Strickland, and a few others from the boys in the band and their gals.  They open with a bit of a rocker, "Natural High", about young kids campin' and fishin'.   Songs of romance, love, drinkin' and trucks certainly qualify them for country.  Oh, sorry, I forgot to mention their use of Texas in the title track "Sixty Miles From Dallas", which gets them in Texas country, and in another tune the mention of Nashville.  If you like slow dancing, track 5, "Blue Eyed Beauty" is for you.  Track 7, "Big Diesel", belongs on a Texas truck commercial like the one where I first heard Cooder Graw. This is just good stuff, good fun like track 9's "Crazy Train", so get it and do some drinkin' and some dancin' all down at Exit 110.

Visit their website at www.exit110band.com to purchase the CD or at www.myspace.com/exit110band to hear cuts from this CD.

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, June, 2006

Cowboy Church

Thomas Michael Riley

What a great thematic compilation of faith based original music.  Not to be confused with gospel, this is just great Texana music with a common spiritual theme.  Thomas Michael Riley has taken a few songs written in the past, added a few new ones, and created a strong message with Cowboy Church.  He summarizes it best by, “I just had to put together a collection of songs for the real people out there, who not only enjoy music, but might even sing along…for the folks who laugh, cry, work hard, celebrate, make mistakes, dance, get sick, hurt, go out of their way to be a friend, get knocked down, climb back up, sin, pray to God, love, forgive, pray for each other, and get up off their knees and selflessly help one another; the folks that understand God’s church isn’t a building; for people who won’t let religion get in the way of salvation.”

• Higher Frequency – traditional country about an “alternative” radio station
• Carrying a Cross – truck driving ballad in Riley’s lilting style about a lighted cross on an rig
• Homesick – lively country gospel with Mike Blakely about our heavenly home and not being quite homesick, yet
• Postcards from Heaven – smooth wistful waltz about a postcard from heaven
• Bye and Bye – toe tapping story about Riley’s life
• One Heart (Lori’s Song) – slow soothing ballad about loneliness after the loss of a loved one
• Heaven Yes – rowdy rendition of life’s choices between: heaven yes; hell no
• Miracles Every Day – musical wondering why worship has to be in a building when miracles are around us every day
• Center of the Universe – love song about a woman, the Lord, or both?
• Three-part Harmony – lively epiphany of faith during a Texas road trip traveling at the speed of sound in 3 part harmony
• Heroes to Me – moving waltz describing ordinary people that are heroes to me (and you)

Get yourself a copy of Cowboy Church from Riley’s web site TMR Original Texas Music, Lone Star Music, or your favorite Texas music establishment. After a listen or two, let him know what you think at tmr@thomasmichaelriley.com.  Check out the review of Thomas Michael Riley’s Livin’ This Time also on this site. Riley’s latest CD, Live and Unplugged at John T Stiles is now available.  Then in early 2007, look for his next CD of original songs.  Thank the Lord that Riley keeps feeding our hungry musical souls!

Cheryl Arthur, May 2006

Cow Hear This 3

Various Artists

CBuJ Entertainment

Ironically, Nashville-based CBuJ Entertainment is releasing Cow Hear This 3, an album showcasing Texas and Red Dirt (aka Texas music from Oklahoma) music and have chosen some excellent artists and bands who appeal especially to the college crowds.  Still, there are some pioneers of the Texas music scene featured as well…Willie with his classic, “Crazy”, Gary P. Nunn with the great song, “Perfectly Normal”, Tommy Alverson with his hit, “Maybe in Mexico”, and Robert Earl Keen who contributed “Out Here In The Middle”.

Then there’s the country rockers who have captured the attention of the college frat boys and their homeys.  But at least they have good taste in music and are not just following the mainstream pop that Nashville is pumping out these days.  Zona Jones, Stoney Larue, Cooder Graw, Micky & The Motorcars, Jamie Richards, and Aaron Watson are all bands to be watching on the Texas scene right now.  Of course, it’s not like Cooder Graw is brand new on the music scene as I’ve been a fan of theirs for at least five or six years now.  But they continue to wow their fans and make new ones as they tour Texas and now surrounding states as well.  All of these guys have a name for themselves already in Texas, and with compilations like this one, it won’t be long before they’re known nationally and even internationally.  Texas music is very popular in Europe, and this is just the kind of CD that will convince other music lovers to explore the great music Texas continues to offer the world.

I’m glad Nashville is taking notice of the music that many people are turning to in lieu of most of the music Nashville is trying to call “country”.  This CD is very well produced and would be a nice compilation to have in your collection.  Cow hear this - buy an extra copy or two to give to those who have not yet discovered our kind of music and then welcome them to the family.

Cow Hear This 3 will be released March 14, 2006.  For more information, visit http://www.cbuj.com.

Miss Lana, March 2006

Peace Of Me

Mark Merritt

Reload Records

To start with, you can't put a title on this one, just a great artist expressing
himself. There's no particular genre, just great music. This one is a bit like
McCartney's first solo album, for the artist mainly did the instrumentation
himself, although he did receive help with drums and acoustic guitar.  The songs were written by Mark and two of his buddies, Earl Musick and Roy Robinson. These songs actually took some thought to write, there is substance here.  Stories of losses in life; "Great Unknown", for instance, and moving on in life - been there myself.  Great love story in "If I'm Dreaming", and the rocker that rocks with the best of them titled "Way Past Cool".  Did I mention this one's produced in Fort Worth, and that these same boys had their hands in that, too?  Good tracks like "Eyes Wide Open" that is just about life and how to possibly live it well.

Acoustic butt kicker played by Mark Merritt, called "Snappy in 'A'", which exerts greatness in guitar playing.  I mean one great track after another, great recording, great production, a real music kinda thing.  How about the art work that is interesting and original?  If ya see this one on the shelves, kick out some cash and add it to your musical stash and crank it up!             

                                                         See ya on the net, peace and love,

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, March, 2006

P.S.- Forgot too mention good vocals on this CD too!  You can purchase the CD from CDBaby or directly from Reload Records.

The Truth Will Set You Free

James Hand

Rounder Records

“Somewhere in Texas

A haunting voice reverberates

Off saloon walls a voice rich

With the echoes of timeless

Country music

The singer songwriter is James Hand

And he has quite a story to tell

Listen once, and

The Truth Will Set You Free”

                                                              From James Hand’s website

It’s always a delight to receive a CD in the mail for review from someone that you know…and love.  So when James Hand’s new CD, The Truth Will Set You Free, arrived, I was elated.  I knew this CD was gonna be good ol' country and honky tonk music done the good ol' fashioned way by a good ol' Texas cowboy who's been singing and playing music, writing songs and performing for nearly four decades and doesn’t get the attention he really deserves.

At age 53, Hand has been playing country music since the age of 12.  That’s a long time, and his music stands the test of time.  His classic sound is not necessarily due to the best voice in country music, but the passion he puts forth makes up for what his voice may be lacking.  Hand is finally releasing his first nationally-distributed CD with this project, produced by Texas music moguls Ray Benson (front man for Asleep At The Wheel) and Lloyd Maines.

I could go through each song on this album, all written by Hand, and describe the songs in detail.  I could tell you they're real country songs that tell a story….just like country music was meant to be.  I could tell you the beat will call you to the dance floor on almost every track.  But don’t forget to listen to the story while you’re dancing, because that’s an important part of what makes Hand’s music so damned good.  I could tell you this song reminds me of a Hank Williams, Sr. song or that song reminds me of a Lefty Frizzell song.  But the truth is, even though they were both influences to Hand’s style of music, Hand is absolutely and totally true to himself as well as to "real" country music. 

So if you are a lover of "real" country music, Mr. Hand’s style is pure, simple and ultimately some of the most honest country music you’ll ever have the pleasure to hear.  Although the music is fine-tuned, his voice and style give the music a rawness that makes it even more enticing.  This album is full of some great stories put to a backdrop of real country sounds that will tug at your heartstrings and even make you chuckle a time or two .

I hope this album will be the one that introduces James Hand to the world outside of Texas.  And we will proudly share another real country star from Texas with the rest of the planet, so they can enjoy and appreciate a real country music talent like James “Slim” Hand.   James Hand is one reason why we Texans like to brag about the greatness of our music.  We are so richly blessed to have James Hand as one of our own.

Look for this CD coming out February 28th and visit his website to order.

Miss Lana, February 2006

Track List:

 1. Banks of the Brazos

 2. Baby, Baby, Don't Tell me That

 3. Here Lies a Good Old Boy

 4. I've Got a Lot of Hiding Left to Do

 5. If I Live Long Enough to Heal

 6. In the Corner, At the Table, by the Jukebox

 7. Leave the Lonely Alone

 8. Little Bitty Slip

 9.  Just an Old Man with an Old Song

10. Shadows Where the Magic Was

11. The Truth Will Set You Free

12. When You Stopped Loving me, So Did I

This Weary Way

Wayne Scott

Just read the liner notes on this one; it's self-explanatory!  What a wonderful
story, the story of a music-playing man.  The opening cut features Mr. Guy Clark sharing vocals, and even ol' Hank Williams could've been inspired by this one.  Tune #2, "Sunday with My Son," begins to break my heart thinking of a recent weekend with my own son.  Track #3, "Bluegrass Gospel," sounds straight out of the Appalachians, and Track #4, the title cut, contains more beautiful gospel bluegrass.  This CD is a work brought to being by Wayne Scott's son, Darrell Scott, finally convincing the ol' man to do his own stuff after a lifetime of playing the bars doing other's material. His roots are Kentucky and there is plenty of flowing through it, but do ya like the blues? Check out Track 7, "When It's Raining After Midnight." This is music played from the soul of a man who is an old pro, though maybe not recognized by the status quo.  On this one, spend your cash, it's a bash; wonderful, wonderful music, musicians, singing, and songwriting.  If aged whiskies are the best, then try this one, it's top shelf.

To hear tracks from this CD or to order, visit www.waynescottmusic.com

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, November, 2005

Live

Jon Christopher Davis

My first thoughts of this one were from the opening cut, and I thought, "Oh
yeah, commercial." I did want to review it, though, and as I listened to it as a
whole, it changed my mind. It's all live from Waxahachie, Dallas, and Nashville.  It kinda has something for everyone, the Top 40 listener and the lover of music. Some good love songs: Track #1, "Love Had Something Else in Mind," Tracks #2, 8 and some broken love songs like Track #6, "2 Story Town," an interesting look at broken love. How 'bout the appropriate jam Track #5's "Folsom Prison Blues." Some beautiful vocal, guitar with piano accompaniment on Track 9's "California." He has written with Radney Foster and Mr. Rodney Crowell.  The simple stuff on this one is the best; it's worth a listen and a going out to see.  Check out his website at jonchristopherdavis.com

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, November, 2005

Tonight's On Me

Jon Rutherford

Ya know, I'd seen this one at Hasting's and paid it no mind, but if you
like country love songs, this one's a real find.  It has all original songs,
great recording, and great vocals that can convey these love songs.  Nice stuff
like the line in Track 2 ("All They Need"), they put their faith in Jesus and
family, they got it all, all they need.  The insert within the CD has a
really good statement from the late Waylon Jennings.  This one does have what it takes to "make it on the country scene," but it is well written, performed, and recorded.  Like some good slow dancing love song put on Tack 4, "Tonight's On Me."  How 'bout broken love beer drinking, Track 6, "Buy Myself a Beer."  The wonderful Texas swing of Track 8, "Taste for Texas," great stuff.  No real stand-outs here, but some good mellow love songs with wonderful vocals.  If you like decent Top 40 stuff, this one's for you. It may not be the biggest catch of the day, but it's definitely a keeper.  To order his CD and/or to listen to some of the tracks, visit www.jonrutherford.com.

4 Stars for the jukebox at the bar

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, November, 2005

Honky Tonk Revival

Miss Leslie & Her Juke Jointers

From the hot and humid Houston area enters Miss Leslie and Her Juke Jointers, a magic time machine bringing us a blast from our past with their new release, Honky Tonk Revival.  If you’re in the generation of baby boomers, this album will arouse tunes way back in the corners of your mind…tunes reminiscent of country music of the 50’s and 60’s mixed with bluegrass undertones.  How well it should, as they have taken some obscure cover songs from that era and incorporated them into their original songs in true "old country" fashion.

Since retro is so popular today among fashion, interior and exterior décor, and cars, why shouldn’t the music take us back a few years as well?  Miss Leslie and her entourage are doing just that, and it’s pretty cool.  This band describes their music as “country music with a hardwood floor sound.”  It certainly tends to make you want to find the hardwood floor to dance to music that has that familiar country sound of the old days, but could also be a new tune written by her main songwriter, Jake Jenkins.

Jenkins, from Dickens, Texas, near Lubbock, is a long time songwriter and banjo player who toured for 10 years with Rebel Records’ Karl Shiflett and the Big Country Show.  He wrote 8 of the 12 songs on KSBC’s last release, Worries On My Mind. This CD reached #18 on the Americana Music Charts.

Randy Lindley, Miss Leslie’s other half, guitarist and harmony vocals, Bill Howard on steel guitar, Big Bad Truckin’ Joe Busa on drums, Damian O’Grady on piano and harmony vocals, Kevin Smith on upright bass and Ricky Davis on guitar make up the Juke Jointers on this album. Hilary Sloan also lends her talent on harmony vocals since Miss Leslie sings, “I Threw Your Pictures Away”, a song Hilary wrote.

Leslie Lindley’s voice is perfect for this style of music, and has a way of bringing the story behind the song out of the wonderful music and into your heart.

I could go into detail about every song on the CD, but instead of doing that, I’m just going to say that if you long for honky tonk music from the good old days, pick up this CD and be ready to enjoy and let Miss Leslie & Her Juke Jointers take you back to a time when country music was really country.  There’s no doubt in my mind that this will do the trick!  To listen to tracks from this CD and to order the CD, visit http://www.miss-leslie.com.
 

Miss Lana, August 2005

Put The Hammer Down

Mark Ambrose

To start with, the hammer is definitely down on this one-an excellent CD!  This one caught me off guard and was just what I needed.  The instrumentation is great, the recording is as they say, "vintage", and a fine one at that.  The singing, playing and songwriting is superb.  This fellow and band have real character.  Some comparisons could be made, but what would be the point for this one can stand on its own.  Put The Hammer Down contains wonderful songs, early country stuff, love songs, Texas songs, folk and blues along with early Memphis or New Orleans rock n roll.  Last but not least, it has a great folk tale of Willie's woes a few years back with the Texas law and some of that weed!  If you enjoy real and genuine music, songs that each have their own personality, then go out and get it.  As soon as you put it on you will be glad you got it!

Out of four stars I give it five...it's the real stuff, no shuck and jive!

This CD can be purchased at www.MarkAmbrose.com, www.CDBaby.com, www.WaterlooRecords.com or www.TexasMusicRoundUp.com

Daniel J. Hinnebusch, June, 2005

Watertown

Mando Saenz

This one's got character, real music and good stories.  It's kinda melancholy like a drizzling day with a few burst of pleasant showers here and there.  This would be great to listen to on a long, lonely but enjoyable drive thru west Texas.

Now for the tracks: #1 "Julia", nothing like a good woman to give a man some hope, even if he is on death row like in this song.  Title track, "Watertown", oh the Rio Valley, I spent 16 months in San Benito still dreaming of the place myself, a place to get away from a lot of it!  In track 3, "When I Come Around", we all have a bit of this...someday when we get around to it.  Track 5, an upbeat tune, one of the pleasant showers I mentioned. It rings a bit of Lyle Lovett's "San Antonio Girl", but a good one in its own right.  Track 6, "Rusty Steeple" , about the numerous things in life that don't seem to change, but the strong winds of life that try and blow us away!  On to track 7, "All I Own", which portrays the hope of us all for peace and rest in the end.  There is much  in this recording to identify with, and it is written with a view from the heart, and again it's a bit melancholy, but a beautiful melancholy.  Well worth the purchase, and I give it 4 out of 4!

For more info on this CD and Mando Saenz, click here.

Morrison-Williams

Self Titled

Palo Duro Records

Well, this is nice music with commercial appeal.  This music rides the middle of the road in today's pop country.  I suppose track one, "My Girl Friday", is a wake up call to some men whom take their wives for granted, and this kinda thing does happen.  Track 3,  "Good Day To Die", has good instrumentation and a good gospel message pertaining to going into battle.  Life itself is a battle in need of gospel preparation!  These boys do have an appeal that should sell well in the top 40 world, nice vocals, melodies and music.  Lots of middle of the road love songs and an interesting redneck wedding song, "Preacher Michael".  Then finally the last track covers "The Cover Of The Rolling Stone", another pop country sound, but it was a pop hit way back when. These boys are good at what they are doing and should fare well out there. It's not my personal cup of tea, but out of 4 cups I'd give them 3!

Visit Morrison-Williams.com for more about this duo.

Circling The Drain

John Evans Band

John Evans has a new CD out called "Circling the Drain".

Hmm. I was thinking about writing how John's powerful voice and leadership
lend very well to the very hard edged songs on this disc...like "Swattin' Flies "
and "Quicksand".  Well, how about the matching guitar work from Billy "Badass" Beason (who, by the way, has one of the greatest guitar snarls while
performing- right up there with James McMurtry).  There's also the bass
fartin' and snarlin' of Brad Jones, and very able backing on the skins
by Mike Ferrara II.

So what do you write about the new offering from these Houston cats?

How about that this is one helluva 'billy disc.  Rockabilly, punkabilly, psychobilly- any billy will do to call out what this is like.  But it's not the "billy" part that makes this a great listen.  Check out the awesome ballad "Endlessly Blue" and some great straight ahead rock and roll that features the Beatles twang and harmonies such as "Wishing Well".

If you're a fan of Jason and the Scorchers, Reverend Horton Heat, Matt Hole and the Hot Rod Gang and want something more than a flag-waving, yea-bob disc of all "TEXAS-TEXAS- TEXAS, BEER-BEER-BEER, I'M DRUNK" music, this might fit your style.

This CD is like an old Sun Records rock and roll '78 but released today, lots of R&R, but the country heritage is right there.  Thanks, JEB, we needed that.

Buy the CD, log on to his web site, http://www.johnevansband.net and check out his shows.

Picking Up Pieces

Bonnie Whitmore

Bonnie Whitmore debuts her first solo CD, and she can certainly be proud of what she and producer dad, Alex Whitmore, accomplished on this project.  "Picking Up Pieces" is a delightful listening album that is very well mixed featuring Bonnie's beautiful vocals.  Sister, Eleanor, accompanies Bonnie with her talented fiddling and back-up vocals.  Father, Alex, also contributes with his guitar and back-up vocals.  After all, they were Daddy & The Divas.

Now Bonnie is proving that she is still a diva now that she's out on her own, writing five of the 12 songs on this album and delivering all twelve with soulful, sassy vocals and a "just right" sound that compliments her style on this CD.  She borrows Brent Mitchell's "The Hand of God", and they do it justice in every way.

This is one of those CD's that you pop in the player on Sunday morning and just sit back and relax...and listen.  It's full of good lyrics and enjoyable music, and the world through the eyes (and voice) of Bonnie Whitmore.  It's not always a happy song, but so many truths of life emoted here.  I hope we'll be enjoying this diva's art of music for many years to come.  She's young, she's talented and she's continuing her musical journey with a sure foot and a golden tone, in her own diva ways...and it's mmmmm, mmmmmm good.

Visit www.bonniewhitmore.com for more about Bonnie and this debut CD.

Track List:

1.  In My Way

2.  Passing Through

3.  Cool Chameleon

4.  Fireflies

5.  The Hand Of God

6.  Next Lonely Love Song

7.  Maybe Someday

8.  Was It You

9.  One Drum

10.  Girl Of Seventeen

11.  Release Me

12.  Drive Me Home

Head First

John Gómez

Reload Records

When you jump head first into anything, you better know what you’re getting yourself into, or it could be a tragic ending.  This scenario could have happened with John Gómez’s debut album, "Head First", but this writer thinks just the opposite applies.  This turned out to be a good thing...even a great thing!

This is an album of song writing with the minimum of acoustic music to set the mood of each song.  Not everyone pulls this off like John Gómez does here.  It’s roots music set to the words of stories that John wrote, for the most part.  It gives you a laid back feeling of wanting to just sit and listen to John’s stories and appreciate the messages he has to tell.  The music envelops the words with just enough emphasis to complete the song (like the violin by Eleanor Whitmore on "Blackland Reunion").

"Bad News Billy" is a well-written song and keeps your attention…what happens to Billy in the end?  A verse in "Snowing in Memphis" goes like this…

And then, there’s the humorous, but sad "Shiner Bock From A Tea Cup".

John has his own way with words that is pleasing to the listener, as well as effective.  It’s refreshing to discover young song writers that are committed to original music of this quality in this "cookie cutter music age" we seem to be stuck in today.  Produced by Earl Musick and Mark Merritt, John is showcasing his song writing style with this album. This Fort Worth artist is finding his niche and finding it quite well.  I look forward to more from this young man as he experiences more of life and the subject matter for his song writing.  He has something to give, and we have something to gain from it.

John’s music is available on MP3.com, CD Baby and SongRamp.com.  You can learn more about John Gómez at http://www.reloadrecordcompany.com/johngomez/

Track List:

 1.  Rough Riding Girl

 2.  Hill Country Star

 3.  Bad News Billy

 4.  Snowing In Memphis

 5.  Shiner Bock From A Tea Cup

 6.  Angelina Dance

 7. Wind Cries Your Name

 8.  Mary Jane

 9.  Blackland Reunion

10.  Lonesome Wind

11.  Someone To Talk To

Miss Lana, October, 2003

Gave Myself The Blues

Johnny Mack

Topcat Records

Johnny Mack's been giving everyone a dose of good blues with his 2003 release of Gave Myself The Blues.  I should mention first that this CD has been accepted for nomination consideration in the "Non-traditional Blues" category for a Grammy award this year.  With that said, you can rest assured that this album contains a smorgasbord of blues...in Johnny Mack style.

Most songs were written by Johnny, and he has a host of great blues musicians blowing out the tunes in traditional blues fashion.  James Hinkle on lead guitar leads the pack (and also produced this CD) along with Danny Ross and Robert Cadwallader on piano, John Garza and Stoney Bass on bass guitar, Gunzy Trevino on drums, Johnny Reno on saxophone for a couple of tunes...the list goes on with too many to mention here.  But they all deserve a mention, that's a given.

If you're a blues fan, it doesn't get any better than this.  And if you ever have the chance to see Johnny Mack up close and personal, you should.  The blues live in his soul, and he bares it all when he's on stage singing the blues.  Somehow it shows on his recordings as well, which makes the music all the more bittersweet.

You can purchase Gave Myself The Blues at Recordtown in Fort Worth, at other fine record stores that carry Topcat Records, and at any live Johnny Mack/James Hinkle show.

Track List:

 1.  House Party Y'all

 2.  Cross Town Girl

 3.  Looking For An Angel

 4.  Go On To School

 5.  Can't Take It With You

 6.  My Baby's Got It

 7.  Gave Myself The Blues

 8.  Wait An See

 9.  My Baby's Out There

10.  Sugar Bee

11.  Quit Hounding My Dog!

Produced by James Hinkle

Miss Lana, October, 2003