Steve Earle is one of the most acclaimed singer-songwriters of his generation, a worthy heir to Townes Van Zandt and Guy Clark, his two musical mentors. Earle has distinguished himself as a master storyteller, and his songs have been recorded by a vast array of artists, including Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Joan Baez, Emmylou Harris, the Pretenders, and more. This is the best I’ve heard from Steve Earle in a long while. It’s a tragedy that Justin Townes Earle is gone and such a terrible loss for his family. You sense the loss but even more so love from father to son. The songs have an earthier tone and a softer touch with an appealing palette of country, blues and bluegrass. It all seems to work and IMO presents Steve at his best. It reminds me of some favourite earlier records, “I Feel Alright” & “Train a Comin”.
Steve Earle – Guitar, Mandolin, Octave Mandolin, Harmonica and Vocal
Chris Masterson – Guitar, Mandolin, 1 Finger Piano and Vocal
Eleanor Whitmore – Fiddle, Mandolin, Organ and Vocal
Ricky Ray Jackson – Pedal Steel Guitar, Dobro and Vocal
Jeff Hill – Acoustic and Electric Bass, Cello and Vocal
Brad Pemberton – Drums, Percussion, and Vocal
All songs written by Justin Townes Earle
released January 4th, 2021
The Fat Angel Sings 