Customer Reviews

Tumblers & Grit

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Richards' press compares his languid baritone to Don Williams and Gordon Lightfoot, but his introspective songs of vulnerability and mettle are more akin to those of Rodney Crowell and roots-rocker Dave Alvin, and his melodies and story telling follow the footsteps of Billy Joe Shaver and John Prine. Heady comparisons for a relatively unknown artist's second album, but Richards' extraordinary songs are delivered with a confidence that belie their love-torn turmoil. You'd think that someone who could smoothly name-check bluesman Willie McTell in rhyme would make sure you noticed - but Richards draws you with an emotional weariness that translates into tasteful understatement.

The buzz generated by Richards' 2002 debut "Jam the Breeze" is fully realized on this follow-up. He's retained the languor and the melodic hooks of his first release, but magnified their effect with production by R.S. Field (who's worked with Prine, Shaver, Allison Moorer and others) and pedal steel from the recently un-retired Lloyd Green. Field emphasizes Richards' soulfulness by surrounding him with gently loping rhythms and surprisingly enthusiastic support from Nashville A-listers. Richards' laid-back singing is buoyed by a lively-two step for "Honkytonk Graveyard," and "Bells of Odilia" lays a sublime path of organ and steel from Saturday night's drunk to Sunday morning's redemption.

Songs of working class roots, first person civil-war narratives, and country music's glory days are only a few examples of how the South has taken hold of this Wisconsin native's writing. Richards has assimilated the elements that once made Nashville the center of American music, and is doing his part to help Music City regain its former relevance.

I'd like you to meet one of the best musicians out there that will never be a big star. Chris is a throwback to the days of authentic country roots. He's an intelligent storyteller and it isn't often you hear someone with this talent level. The music business is buzzing about this guy, but it's the side of the business that has stayed true to real music. His debut 'Jam the Breeze' was great, and he's just kicked it up a notch, which is incredible in itself. Do not miss out on this one.