John Doe & The Sadies- Country Club

Country music is an interesting beast.  On one part you have traditionalists who will fight to the death to preserve the honor of Johnny Paycheck and George Jones.  Then you have the modern school of thought that embraces "pop" elements ( which has probably deeper roots in country music than most people want to admit, Jimmie Rodgers played pop songs of the day).   You also have a distinct history and lineage that is traceable and honored, ( Similar to Heavy Metal and Hip Hop).  So keeping that in mind we have the singer of one the greatest bands to ever walk out of Los Angeles ( Mr. Doe) being backed by one of the best bands to walk out of Canada, (only The Band, Rush, and the eternal 14 year old in me thinks Anvil are better).  Instead of a synthesis of new music, which would be almost too good to be true, these minstrels lay their hands on the past.  

The results are pretty stunning.  The Sadies are amazing musicians and their method of attack is sublime.  Every song sways with balance and nuance.   Mr. Doe's voice is as familiar as the catalog they play, ( there are no real surprises in the choices ).  The presentation of the art overrides any lack of meaning that might be inherent in a group of cover songs.   Both artists create subtle waves of sound and I know this album wouldn't be out of place the next time I go into the Ernest Tubb Record Store in the Stockyards of Fort Worth.