High Spirits
Self-Released, 2025
9/10
The Colorado country band, The Barlow, return with a less structured approach to their song craft, where harmonies, melodies and rhythm is all present in spades.
“Standing Next To Me” opens with Ben Richter’s thumping drums and the warm guitars alongside Shea Boynton’s smooth voice, and “It Ain’t Mine” follows with Craig Bennington’s hazy pedal steel that adds much intimacy into the rich delivery.
“Backwater” occupies the middle spot and welcomes both grit and tunefulness to the cautious mood that benefits much from Jason Berner’s skilled bass, while “Clean”, the best track, balances rawness and flowing songwriting that’s heartfelt and timeless.
“Dreams For Tomorrow” and “Lost Angel Saloon” exit the listen. The former makes great use of Brad Johnson’s swirling guitar via an energy you could dance to, and the latter recruits Andy Schneider’s frisky keys for the infectious country nods that are nostalgic and charming.
A diverse effort that embraces grooves, haunting moments and Southern Rock flavor, The Barlow again impress us with their inimitable brand of country rock.
Travels well with: Kerri Powers- Love Is Why; The Barlow- New Year, Old Me