The Horses And The Hounds
New West, 2021
9/10
Listen to The Horses And The Hounds
It’s been 6 years since James McMurtry has released a record, and he’s made the wait worth it as he brings some exceptional talent to these 10 well thought out tunes that span folk, country and rock’n’roll, where the veteran musician delivers with plenty of youthful energy.
“Canola Fields” starts the listen with a rugged and melodic version of Americana as Daren Hess handles drums with much poise and Harry Smith’s mandolin and banjo complements the harmony vocals, and “If I Don’t Bleed” follows with a quicker pace of gritty roots rock that benefits from Bukka Allen’s strategic organ.
“Decent Man” lands in the middle and displays McMurtry’s vivid storytelling alongside David Grissom’s cozy guitar work, while “Vaquero” moves cautiously amid breezy melodies and well placed accordion. The title track is one of the best present and gets more firm with a country rock appeal that hosts Betty Soo and Akina Adderley on backing vocals.
Towards the end, “What’s The Matter” bounces with a playful spirit that’s complete with a mando guitar solo from Grissom, and “Blackberry Winter” exits the listen in rural rock territory that’s tuneful while still being raw with emotion and melody.
McMurtry has been releasing records since the late ‘80s, and he’s only getting better with age. A listen that’s largely focused on looking back, he’s got enough bite for the alt-country crowd while still having much to offer the Americana and country inclined, too. Ultimately, though, he knows how to pen a song you won’t forget soon, as evidenced by this superb effort.
Travels well with: Dave Alvin- From An Old Guitar: Rare And Unreleased Recordings; Buddy & Julie Miller- Breakdown On 20th Ave. South