Posted by Pete Smith on January 1, 2008, 3:17 am
81.132.17.23
“The Advertiser” (UK) 14 December 2007
San Franciscan Jeffrey Halford is a poet, a singer, songwriter and a mean guitarist. His stature in roots American music is established by five critically albums and a sixth, “Broken Chord” (Shoeless), which will in the very near future enhance the widespread respect Halford commands. Jeffrey is adventurous, not afraid to take chances to create a special sound and he is innovative a combination that produces exciting, interesting and entertaining music. “Broken Chord” is basically ten brand new country rock and country blues originals performed with passion by a guy sure in his knowledge of his chosen music.
Sampling this more than satisfying album we discover the dark “Dead Man’s Hand”, we meet “Chicken Bones Jones” and are invited to the wedding of the “Rockabilly Bride”. Great songs but the greatest for me is “10 Minutes” with the theme “a long way from what you want but only ten minutes from what you need” - brilliant! Great also to hear former Texas Tornado Augie Meyers making his presence felt. www.jeffreyhalford.com
An adventurous and innovative approach to country music is also the way of Big Rain. I must say I was knocked out by “Big Rain” (Oak/Comstock) and the programme of eleven songs, mostly penned by lead vocalist and bassist Bruce Guynn, simply because this is what country rock is all about. There are influences in there, that cannot be disputed, but also beyond dispute is the fact that Big Rain is totally original. “Sweet Inspiration”, the opener, has a kind of countrified Merseybeat sound it (amazing!) and you will find echoes of the Mavericks (without the horns) and you will also discover some really beautiful songs; “Angel In My Room”, December Night” and “Waiting”. An added bonus is the inclusion of Doug Livingston, Bobby Furgo and Richie Podolor picking steel, fiddle and mandolin respectively.
Only around ten days to Christmas so I have a reason to bring to your attention a seasonal album by a genuine Native American, Chief-George Braswell. I have been regularly playing the good Chief, a devout Christian, for around two years now and recently when EHK of Santa Fe, Texas sent “Home For The Holidays” (Rejoice) I was more than delighted. Chief-George is ever sincere, believing every word he sings whether this be a time tested carol such as “O Come All Ye Faithful” or “Hark The Herald Angels Sing” or a yuletide ditty like “Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer” or “Jingle Bells” and this is what gives a real edge to this seasonal offering. With this collection you are really “Home For The Holidays” enjoying “Joy To The World/Deck The Halls”, “O Little Town Of Bethlehem/Away In A Manger”, “Silver Bells”, “Blue Christmas”, Silent Night” and “White Christmas/The Night Before Christmas”. www.fish-n.net
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