Chuck Ragan: Gold Country

Chuck Ragan
Gold Country
SideOneDummy Records [2009]









Fire Note Says: When punk and folk collide!

Album Review:
I am not sure that when the punk rock group Hot Water Music came to a conclusion that many would have predicted the emergence of its gravely voiced frontman Chuck Ragan. His power folk is nothing but simple upbeat inspired country, that has everything you want from this genre: emotion, stories, and skillful playing. Sing-a-longs can be found throughout his studio sophomore record Gold Country and songs like "Glory", "The Trench" and "Let It Rain" are totally unforgettable. What makes Gold Country stand out from its contemporary rivals is that along with Ragan's distinct vocal is the albums instrumentation. Every track has a very living and rich aurora about it, especially with the help of violinist Jon Gaunt and Hot Water Music drummer George Rebelo. It only takes one listen to heartfelt closer "Get Em All Home" for you to become enamored with Chuck Ragan's folk sound - it only takes one listen to Gold Country to be completely enamored!

Key Tracks: "Glory", "Get Em All Home", "The Trench"

Bands With Similar Fire:
William Elliott Whitmore
The Avett Brothers
Patterson Hood

Official Chuck Ragan Website
Chuck Ragan MySpace
Chuck Ragan Info [Allmusic]
SideOneDummy Records

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta