ROOTS

The latest releases reviewed.

JIM LAUDERDALE
Country Super Hits (Vol 1)
Yep Roc
****

You would have to work hard to dislike Jim Lauderdale. There's a warmth and an embracing familiarity to his work, whether it be straight country or bluegrass. The title of his first album for a new label is ironic, as all these tracks are new songs (mostly co-written with producer Odie Blackmon) that display Lauderdale's debt to the likes of the late Buck Owens, to whom the album is dedicated. The opening track, Honky Tonk Mood Again, is the essence of that classic country mix of temptation and the price to be paid, with a ringing chorus that hangs around in your head forever. The 12 remaining tracks don't quite reach the same height but many come close, their rhinestone suit country a perfect fit for the man from North Carolina. One such track is Two More Wishes, a gorgeously tacky ballad that would be a great option for the Mavericks' Raul Malo. www.jimlauderdale.com     Joe Breen

JIM LAUDERDALE
Bluegrass
Yep Roc
****

Yowsa, shome mistake here? Actually no. Mr Lauderdale just changed his nudie suit for a cowboy shirt and jeans and tunnelled down to the deep seam that is bluegrass, where he managed to mine some nuggets from his rich collection of songs, some co-written with luminaries such as guitarist Buddy Miller. By simultaneously releasing albums from the twin peaks of the country range, Lauderdale displays his easy mastery of the genre. Both albums are exceptional. The bluegrass playing is pin sharp, which is not surprising with the likes of guitarist Bryan Sutton involved. The themes are the usual fare - love found, love lost and the miserable aftermath - but there is a sparkle in the playing which sets it apart. That said, it's tearjerkers Forever Ends Today and My Treasure that leave the sweetest taste. www.jimlauderdale.com     Joe Breen