Drive-By Truckers
The Dirty South
(New West Records)
For the third straight album, Alabama's Drive-By Truckers write what they know with a zeal unsurpassed in American rock groups. Suicide, drugs, corruption, tornadoes, family -- these complex topics populate The Dirty South, a bracing reconsideration of life below the Mason-Dixon Line. What had become an easy cultural stereotype -- the ass-backwards rednecks of hillbilly central -- is redeemed by the band's three smart Southern songwriters. Mike Cooley contributes gems like "Daddy's Cup," a son's determined attempt to claim the race-car glory his failed father never could achieve on his own. Patterson Hood, the band's leader, specializes in demythologizing tales but also loves the hard-luck losers, such as on the desperate Crazy Horse fury of "Lookout Mountain." But best of all may be youngster Jason Isbell, who on "Goddamn Lonely Love" and "Danko/Manuel" adds the introspection and philosophical content. On the Truckers' best record yet, they pay homage to their roots while burying the clichs six feet deep.
Now Trending
-
Voice Places
Find everything you're looking for in your city
-
Happy Hour App
Find the best happy hour deals in your city
-
Daily Deals
Get today's exclusive deals at savings of anywhere from 50-90%
-
Best Of...
Check out the hottest list of places and things to do around your city
- Profile
- Newsletters
- Mobile
- Logout
