Mark Erelli - Hillbilly Pilgrim

At first glance, a folkie like Mark Erelli going country seems like a departure, but Erelli's basic approach is one suited to country. Country tunesmiths are also in the business of making the old seem new and varying the routine with a memorable turn of phrase or a hook you can't get out of your head. Erelli has always written in this style; the twang is just overt this time around. The country trimmings are supplied by Boston country act the Spurs, and it sounds as if they're having as much of a lark on this album as Erelli himself.

Many of the songs on Hillbilly Pilgrim are lighthearted fare. Let's Make a Family is self-explanatory, while Ain't No Time of Year is a fluffy holiday confection about a jilted lover hoisting a few with Santa. Pretend is a duet with Erin McKeown, fun but insubstantial. Troubador Blues is a catchy number about folksinging, which slips a little social commentary between the pedal steel licks and nods to past songwriters. ~ Full Review at Rambles.net

Track Listing :

• Brand New Baby
• Troubadour Blues
• A Bend In The River
• Pretend
• The Farewell Ball
• Let's Make A Family
• Troubles (Those Lonesome Kind)
• My Best Was Just Not Good Enough (For You)
• Fool No.1
• Ain't No Time Of Year To Be Alone
• Pilgrim Highway

More information about Mark Erelli can be found at the Mark Erelli official website