Chuck Ragan - Gold Country

Citing “musical differences” after a band splits is generally doublespeak aimed at sparing blushes until the bloody truth makes its inevitable appearance. Not so for US underground punkers Hot Water Music, as the two unexpected country-rock albums singer Chuck Ragan has released since they disbanded in 2006 have come completely out of leftfield, acting as proof of the creative chasm that must’ve opened up between personnel. Luckily for Ragan, his artistic left-turn hasn’t proven to be a wrong one. Newest effort Gold Country is a ragged longplayer whose stock in trade is melancholy but ultimately celebratory Americana. Ragan's distinctively scratchy voice lends conviction to country that's raw and nuanced enough to hold the listener’s attention, and, although there’s some sagging towards the end, anti-war closer Get ‘Em All Home pulls things back in a powerful final blow. If this Country isn’t exactly gold standard, it merits at least a solid silver.