Opening on a wave of distortion that's straight out of Steppenwolf's "Magic Carpet Ride," Harm's Way gets right down to business with "Square One," a compelling slice of rave-up power pop with countryish undertones. After that, the drinks flow freely: Skynyrd's "Tuesday's Gone" meets Steve Earle's "I Ain't Ever Satisfied" ("Lucky You"), Walkabouts-styled guy-gal harmonies -- courtesy Hill and guest Kim Baker -- floating in a sea of minor-key desert rock ("Peace Offering"), a touch of Uncle Tupelo and a hint of Thin Lizzy ("When We Didn't Know").
Incidentally, this release also marks the debut of Miles of Music as a recording concern. The Hollywood-based label has been (and still is) a distributor and mail order source for quality sounds that any No Depressive worth his or her wallet will testify on the behalf of. Point your browser at www.milesofmusic.com; there's loads of helpful, humorous and opinionated music commentary on-site along with an impressive selection of music available for your purchasing pleasure.