Search - Tony Rackley :: Fields of Carolina

Well-crafted Americana w/ strong melodic & lyrical elements

J. Ross | Roseburg, OR USA | 04/13/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Tony Rackley, from South Carolina, performed at the 2001 IBMA Songwriters Showcase and has now assembled an impressive 11-song original collection, with accompaniment by Missy Raines, Jim Hurst, Aubrey Haynie, Rob Ickes and Steven Hill. Rackley's material can best be described as Americana, and it shows strong influences of country, folk and newgrass. His well-crafted songs display strong melodic and lyrical elements. Rackley's material is turning heads, and his song, "Fields of Carolina" has been covered by Jim Hurst and Missy Raines on their album, Two. Songs like "Sinner's Lament" would make a nice addition to a traditional bluegrass band's repertoire, while a song like "Goin' Down to the Country" is soulful newgrass. Bluegrass gospel groups looking for new material should listen to "Shine on Me." Tony Rackley has a great deal of talent and skill, and this album shows that he is equally comfortable with a multitude of acoustic musical genres. His presentation is a strong, unique, ecletic blend.
--by Joe Ross, moderator/reviewer for "Nwbluegrass""