This album is a little slicker and more mainstream sounding than his previous records, which should make him more palatable to a mainstream audience. It manages to retain an edge, though, and on tracks like "Countrier Than Thou" and "Goodbye, Cruel Girl" it out and out rocks. Still, I have the same problem I've always had with Fulks--his snide, "CHEEKIER-than-thou" (pardon the pun) approach to songwriting wears on me after awhile. We know you're smart, Robbie, and we know you're only kidding. We get it. Why not try moving on? Although I'm sure he loves and would acknowledge a huge debt to country greats from Hank Williams to Harlan Howard to Loretta Lynn, it still seems that all Fulks can do is snarl and sneer when comes to making music. I hope some day he learns to take off the mask and dig a little deeper.

Robbie Fulks is a songwriter's songwriter and a musician's musician. He's a genuine music fan whose amazing gifts allow him to explore a wide range of styles comfortably, always with provocative results. His most common milieu is country, but Fulks is adept at pop, rock, folk, etc. as well. Even in country his tastes are eclectic; here he pays tribute to the countrypolitan sounds of the 70s with a stunning set that shows off his many talents. Impudent anthems, knee slappers, chilling songs of betrayal and death--they're all here, all expertly crafted and delivered. He's a modern day Roger Miller.

Another great record from Robbie. The usual impressive musicianship and songwriting. This is one of those records that makes you wonder what mainstream country labels are thinking. In a perfect world "Where There's a Road" would enjoy significant radio airplay and time in the top ten. This ain't no perfect world, so those of us that enjoy Robbie's music will have to carry on by ourselves. Great shot at the self-absorbed, pretentious acts in "Countrier Than Thou." "I'm Gonna Take You Home" is another great romp in a "Parallel Bars" vein. Thanks, Robbie.