It's a safe bet that the souvenirs this Seattle four-piece are fondest of are the vintage albums of 1960s country legends like Marty Robbins, Ray Price, and Roy Orbison. The Souvenirs' arrangements display the same thrilli... more »ng mix of honky-tonk and Nashville Sound, and, as the dozen originals on their debut attest, they have studied successfully at the feet of Harlan Howard. Just when you think you've merely dug up a beautiful time capsule, these guys turn your head with a modern touch--the crashing power chords of "So Tired of Missing You," the full-bore rock-out that concludes "Heartbroken Man"--that reminds you this is music of a living and breathing tradition. Reminds you, in other words, of a scruffier version of the Mavericks. And if these guys had a singer as good as Price, Robbins, Orbison, or the Mavs' Raul Malo, they might transform souvenirs into genuine keepsakes. Even as is, though, the Souvenirs are definitely worth lugging home. --David Cantwell« less
It's a safe bet that the souvenirs this Seattle four-piece are fondest of are the vintage albums of 1960s country legends like Marty Robbins, Ray Price, and Roy Orbison. The Souvenirs' arrangements display the same thrilling mix of honky-tonk and Nashville Sound, and, as the dozen originals on their debut attest, they have studied successfully at the feet of Harlan Howard. Just when you think you've merely dug up a beautiful time capsule, these guys turn your head with a modern touch--the crashing power chords of "So Tired of Missing You," the full-bore rock-out that concludes "Heartbroken Man"--that reminds you this is music of a living and breathing tradition. Reminds you, in other words, of a scruffier version of the Mavericks. And if these guys had a singer as good as Price, Robbins, Orbison, or the Mavs' Raul Malo, they might transform souvenirs into genuine keepsakes. Even as is, though, the Souvenirs are definitely worth lugging home. --David Cantwell
CD Reviews
Just Good Music
10/28/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Not being a big fan of country music, I wasn't expecting much. But after hearing the record and seeing the band live, WOW! This is just good, honest music that will get your feet movin' and your face smilin'. Great production - you can hear every instrument. If you want something more than girl/boy bands, psuedo-country, or the latest diva, give these boys a listen. Great little record."
ONE SOUVENIR I TOOK HOME
Ed Van Dood (sped96@msn.com) | NY,NY | 10/22/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The Souvenirs are a welcome change from top 40 "alternative music".Their music defies easy categorization,country yet with an urban edge.The music challenges the listener, and that is all too rare today."
Honkey-Tonk worthy of my truck drivin' grandfather's ghost.
Ed Van Dood (sped96@msn.com) | 10/05/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Maybe I have a bit of Texas in my blood, but I haven't been moved by music since Nirvanna's "Smells Like Teen Spirit." While the two musical genres couldn't be more musically different, if you're in the mood for something alternative to "alternative music," "King of Heartache"'s dead-on lyrics, shuffle-step rhythm and perfect slide guitar will make you want to buy a pair of indigo Wranglers and drink Bud in long neck bottles.Even if you hate country music, this Honkey-Tonk band just may get you take a second look at your existing music collection and reconsider."
The new sound of Honky-tonk !
Ed Van Dood (sped96@msn.com) | 09/15/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The Souvenirs are bringing the roots of country back in this age of " pop country". They have a sound that reaches out to all types of music lovers. I especially like the dark undertones of 1000 miles away. I am not a big country fan but this album opened my eyes to a hole new sound that you don't hear on the radio. Some call it "Alternative Country" but I avoid the labels and call it good music. So if you are looking for something fresh check this out."
An unbelievably talented band and a remarkable debut CD
Ed Van Dood (sped96@msn.com) | 09/15/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Yes, this is a country band but their sound is so far off from what you may assume. I would never waist a moment of my life listening to any popular counrty from the last 30 years but I'd listen to this CD till the day I die. You'll get no whine and no sap from Lucky Lawerence, he sings with a tone that is deep and rich with soul. The band is just shy of perfect. See them in the intimacy of club while you can, I'm sure they'll be headlining stadiums tours soon. This is the first county CD I have ever owned and as long as The Souvenirs keep making music I'm sure this won't be my last."
Track Listings (13) - Disc #1
