A musical ramble through country music, folk and americana--and that's before getting to the lyrical thread of the album. Heartbreak, bad love, murder and then some. The musical variety supplements the story told by the songs, finally yielding something like the ultimate country album.

Michelle & Jason Hannan featuring Howard Parker Cheater's Waltz (self-released)

All the themes here are well-worn, and the lyrics sometimes veer toward cliche. The music, too, hits certain obvious notes. I think that's intentional. This approach sort of lulls the listener into a safe place before everything is incinerated by the plot.

Howard Parker is the pedal steel and dobro man in the band, and his efforts here are herculean. He composed and played the musical interludes which punctuate the "acts" of this play. His ability to go bright and dark with equal skill and verve is impressive, and his playing tells the tale at least as well as the lyrics.

This is an album that is best listened to in a single sitting. Spinning the songs on random will reveal some wonderful moments, but for full impact the album should be heard straight through. Country concept albums aren't the norm, but the Hannans have pulled off a doozy. Enticing and ultimately bracing. Bravo!

Jon Worley