Sweethearts
SubCat, 2023
8/10
The guitarist and singer Christian Parker interprets Sweetheart Of The Rodeo, the 1968 album from The Byrds, and even tosses in a couple surprises, where plenty of guests are along for the creative country rock.
The lovely pedal steel from Tracer James opens the flowing sing-along country of “You Ain’t Going Nowhere”, and “I Am A Pilgrim” follows with Danny Gotham’s glowing mandolin that complements the gorgeous vocal harmonies courtesy of Jennifer Kessler.
Further along, Liesl S. Dofy’s animated fiddle guides the rootsy flavor of “Pretty Boy Floyd”, while the always fun “I Still Miss Someone” enlists Michael Rinne’s meticulous upright bass that adds much breeziness to the classic track.
Near to the end, “Life In Prison” showcases Earl Poole Ball’s superb and upbeat piano playing alongside Parker’s expressive voice for the album’s best, and of the 3 tracks not on the original album, “Drug Store Truck Driving Man” benefits from Gary Jacob’s radiant pedal steel and Ron Keck’s fluid drumming.
Whether you’ve heard the original or not, you’re going to be enamored with Parker’s ability to produce tender moments as well as louder blasts of rural rock that tweaks the seminal original record in timeless ways.
Travels well with: Caroline Cotter- Gently As I Go; Chris Vallillo- Forgottonia