Title - 'Mountain Soul II' (Saguaro Road Records)
Artist - Patty Loveless
This lady, it seems, can do no wrong. Another fine collection of hillbilly songs in this age of modern country. What is being passed off as country music these days is a farce and a sham. I mean, folks like Taylor Swift make fine pop songs, many of which I do like, but to call her country is more than stretching it.
Anyhow, this latest effort by Patty Loveless is the real deal. I feel her version of "Busted" far outshines all others, and "Working On A Building" "Friends in Gloryland," and "Abraham" are truly outstanding in country gospel.
It seems like so much of what is considered country music today has lost sight of the southern sound. The pride of being a hillbilly singer is gone. 'Mountain Soul II', like Patty's first traditional CD, 'Mountain Soul I', brings the listener to the heart of Appalachia, and for this northern boy, it is quite an enjoyable ride. It is a traditional sound in a non-traditional world.
This CD really does make a fine 'Part 2' to 'Mountain Soul I', and the two go hand in hand together quite well. Thank you Patty for staying the course. Unlike a number of others former country artists who feel they must become 'alternative' or political, you have remained true. [KG]