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Mark Erelli – Hillbilly Pilgrim
Over his last 3 discs Mark has established himself as one of the most versatile singer/songwriters around and his songs seamlessly cover a broad range of styles, ‘Hillbilly Pilgrim’ takes the Americana aspect of his work and looks back at its roots of Western swing and classic country. Whilst most contemporary artists performing this style are meticulously faithful to the genre and material, Mark has written all the songs himself and while the music is authentic vintage twang, the lyrics come from the contemporary folk field. As a result the lyrics are insightful and thoughtful, but the more playful feel to the music has rubbed off as there’s a definite knockabout and humorous feel in places.
He’s teamed up with members of Boston country band ‘The Spurs’ for this disc and the collaboration really works as the whole collection feels like a bona fide period album; there’s fantastic slide, steel & electric guitar and fiddle parts throughout, and the guitar break in ‘Troubadour Blues’ is worth the entrance fee alone.
It’s this song that provides the real stand out of the album, it’s a track which manages to explain the catalyst for him becoming a singer/songwriter, takes a dig at the Bush administration, as well as name-checking Woody Guthrie, Dave Carter, Townes Van Zandt and Jimmie Rodgers along the way – it’s a magnificent song.
Elsewhere there’s a playful duet with Erin McKeown (‘Pretend’), a fantastic narrative of blue collar worker (‘A Bend in the River’), and an acoustic gospel-tinged ending to the album (‘Pilgrim Highway’).
While the premise of ‘Hillbilly Pilgrim’ didn’t really appeal, one listen through was enough to convince me, and over repeated listens it gets better and better. To attempt this disc was a brave decision, but the fact he carries it of so convincingly and with such swagger only cements his position as the brightest star amongst the young singer/songwriters. Approach it with an open mind and enjoy – an outstanding album!
ERELLI MARK - HILLBILLY PILGRIM
Erelli Mark
CD (Cat No: 12837)
ERELLI MARK - HILLBILLY PILGRIM
