Honky Tonk
Sage Arts, 2026
9/10
The Seattle outfit Marley’s Ghost never stay in one genre too long, and these 14 songs that fall on their 40th anniversary further prove just how versatile they are.
“Invitation To The Blues” opens with Mike Phelan’s smooth voice alongside Jonathan Wilcox’s bright mandolin that suits the warm and indeed bluesy mood, and “Honky Tonk Song” follows with Bob Nichols’ crisp drumming and Jerry Fletcher’s animated keys making for a festive mood.
Moving along, “Just Someone I Used To Know” is a charming duet that benefits much from Dan Wheetman’s frisky bass, while “Slowly” enlists Phelan’s stirring fiddle and heartfelt singing that lands in intimate territory.
Getting close to the end, “Midnight” comes with a slower presence that’s got plenty of rhythm and meticulous guitar playing, and “Birmingham Bounce” exits with a dance floor ready spirit that’s bouncy and a lot of fun in a country, honky tonk, rockabilly sort of way.
A really exciting album, Marley’s Ghost know their way around country, folk and Western swing with the best of them, and this honky tonk focused outing puts their inimitable spin on some already great songs.
Travels well with: Afton Wolfe- Ophiuchus; Jeremy Dion- Another Perfect Day