MARK BRINE
For Karrie (Wild Oats)
Reviewed by Shaun Dale

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Since migrating from Cambridge, Mass to Nashville some three decades ago, Mark Brine has carved out a strong reputation as an uncompromising traditionalist on the country music scene which has made him one of the elder statesmen of Americana. Heavily influenced by the twin pillars of Hank Williams and Jimmie Rodgers, Brine provides an invaluable link between country music's past and the present, and is busy writing and performing songs that will certainly hold a place in country music's future.

For Karrie offers a baker's dozen of new songs from Brine, along with a timely cover of Eddie Russell's timeless "Once A Soldier." There's a little heartbreak, a little honky tonk, some terrific stories and a lot of talent served up among the 14 tracks, and if you've never had the chance to hear him before, this is an album that's likely to make you a dedicated fan forever. It's acoustic country at its very best.

Track List:

Up On Elk's Ridge * For Karrie * Baby, You Move Me * Once A Soldier (Always A Hero) * You Ain't Feelin' With A Full Deck * 8th Grade Romance (...And They Danced) * Always Open Arms * Riverboat * Mae West Momma * Stephen * Even Blind Faith Has To See * Blue Roses * Back Roads * Fly Away

© 2004 - Shaun Dale