FIRMLY in the war-faring tradition of George Jones, Tammy Wynette and the Handsome Family is a country album from husband-and-wife team The Arlenes.
Recorded in Austin, Texas, where they relocated from the UK, the verve of the title track and opener Smallville 336 could well find success on the radio dials of their new home. Going To California is full of these new immigrants' love of the rural idyll. Elsewhere storm clouds darken their picket-fence picture, Married Life and Don't Turn Away blow hot and cold without rising above the ordinary. Like its predecessor, Cast A Spell, the great first impression isn't maintained. However, the smooth voice of 'Big' Steve recalls both Dwight Yoakam and The Mavericks, while Stephanie's harmonies also appeal, and with continued domestic harmony and greater consistency, the pair could yet stumble on their own gold rush.
Updated: 08:56 Thursday, September 16, 2004
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