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There were a bunch of CDs that I intended to do full reviews for but as you might expect, TIME got the better of me. Rather than just let these releases slip by without a mention, I thought I’d post some quickies before the year is through. So here are some recent releases that have made the rotation in my car’s CD changer…
Charlie Haden – Family and Friends: Rambling Boy
An unexpected but thoroughly enjoyable bluegrass/country music album from jazz bassist Charlie Haden. Haden rounded up his talented family and a slew of famous friends (including Bruce Hornsby, Ricky Skaggs, Vince Gill and Elvis Costello) to put together a tribute to the songs he grew up with and still loves. highlights include: “He’s Gone Away”, “Is This America? (Katrina 2005)” and the very touching “Oh Shenandoah”.

Brad Paisley – Play
I suppose this was inevitable since Brad Paisley is such a strong lead guitar player but a lot of his humor is lost when the instrumentals kick in. The album feels a bit awkward trying to balance his “guitar lessons” with his signature country/pop songs but the man (along with his guitar buddies) sure can play! Check out “Cluster Pluck” for some major guitar hero overkill.

Jenny Lewis – Acid Tongue
Another strong effort from Rilo Kiley’s front woman Jenny Lewis. The album has a neat retro sound and it’s impressive to learn that Lewis and company recorded the bulk of the tracks live in the studio with minimal overdubs. The nine minute “The Next Messiah” is one of the highlights especially for the band’s tight transitions linking the three parts together. nicely done! other highlights include: “See Fernando”, “Carpetbaggers” and “Jack Killed Mom”.

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music, reviews by retroDan