|
The Derailers's Album Reviews:
Read reviews and rate The Derailers and help define the Austin TX music scene for your fellow friends on Unlock Austin.
| What a big disappointment |
|
|
|
| I just saw the Derailers at the Beat Kitchen in Chicago. I was so excited to finally be getting to see this great band. Well the band I saw was ok, but they should change their name because they are no longer the Derailers. These guys were pop-country want-to-bes with little remaining style, wit, humor, emotion or those beautiful harmonies I truly grew to love. I left before the show was over. Ill keep playing the albums I have because they are top notch, but as far as I am concerned the Derailers no longer exist.
|
|
|
| Edward86 |
|
|
|
| Im always amazed at the way these guys stay true to their music. You will not find music that is Nashville savy for the sake sending one to the charts. They are genuine artists. This album again reflects their dedication to the cause and craft. There are definitely cuts that are worthy of commercial FM play : The one B4 Me, Shes a lot like TX,and Every time it rains Dont hold your breath though. You can still find them on satelite and digital radio. Worthy of your $ and time.
|
|
|
| Real Country Progression |
|
|
|
| This is the direction that gives me hope for american music. Not pop country / a.k.a. everything played on country radio. This is a refreshing toe tapping feel good CD that deserves to be in any MUSIC FANS library. Please, support quality, support this wonderful band. On the CD itself, there is better production value than the first 2 releases. FWD takes the Derailers as a group to the next level, the feel more comfortable or at ease with one another and in so each song floats effortlessly to the next. HIGHEST RECOMMENDATION!
|
|
|
| Great Twang, Great Songs |
|
|
|
| Like one of the other reviewers said - this is like a greatest hits CD. Theres 14 tracks, and 12 of them could be singles. (If you could actually find radio stations that play this sort of country). All the tracks have a few things in common - perfect, tight harmonies; great twangy guitar; great steel guitar. But each track has its own personality.I bought this CD in 1999. Its 2005 now. And I still love this CD. This is one of those rare CDs where every track is catchy enough to grab your attention from the first listen. But theres so many little details and extra little touches - that the tracks still stand up to MANY repeated listens.There are a few heartache numbers on this CD that I really love. (Cant Stop a Train, No One To Talk to But the Blues, Dull Edge of the Blade). But for the most part, this is an upbeat CD. It really puts me in a good mood, and makes me wanna dance!If you ever get a chance to see these guys live - dont miss it. These guys obviously have a great time on stage, and you cant help but catch a little of that good vibe!Some people would complain that these guys are re-hashing the Bakersfield sound. Like theres a problem with that? The Derailers pay homage to a great era of country music. And the songwriting is strong enough that they make a vintage style sound fresh.
|
|
|
| Buy two copies, youll wear out the first. |
|
|
|
| Every once in a while you get in a performer the ability to write and sing good counrty music. And thats what you get with Tony Villanueva and the Derailers. It just doesnt get any better than this. The Derailers make music here that far exceeds most anything that has come out of country music since those who invented it. Straight forward and to the point. Two-steppin, tear-jerkin, beer drinkin, live country music the way it was supposed to be. I could almost taste the cold beer and feel the hips of the sweet hillbilly girls I danced with at their shows every time I listen to this cd. And now that Tony has left the band, I guess thats it. To bad.
|
|
|
| Refreshing |
|
|
|
| I love The Derailers. This collection of tunes is the kind of country rock twang I love. I never cared much for the classicWaylon and Willie stuff! It didnt have the guitars and drums these guys have. Some songs are really good, some are average but I have Jackpot, Here come the Derailers, and Genuine. They all have great originality. I do like the way Kyle Lehning produced these albums. Dave Alvin produced Jacpot. Its good but the music isnt recorded as well as the other two. Sorry Dave! I think Genuine is a great song real modern twang youll love!So if you like country rock twang like Pete Anderson of Dwight Yoakam or Brent Mason and Brent Rowan youll like this one
|
|
|
| Listening to this album is hitting a Jackpot! |
|
|
|
| If youve liked any Derailers albums youve listened to before youre going to love this. The songs are indeed great. If you have hardwood floors, a stereo, and a bottle of gin, this CD is all you need for the perfect evening. Every song on this CD is perfect for a Derailers Dance Party. Everyone will be dancing and having the time of their lives!
|
|
|
| Listening to this album is hitting a Jackpot! |
|
|
|
| If youve liked any Derailers albums youve listened to before youre going to love this. The songs are indeed great. If you have hardwood floors, a stereo, and a bottle of gin, this CD is all you need for the perfect evening. Every song on this CD is perfect for a Derailers Dance Party. Everyone will be dancing and having the time of their lives!
|
|
|
| Reverb DeluxI |
|
|
|
| I like this type of honky-tonk/Bakersfield music. I became a real Buck Owens fan ten years after he dropped out of sight And when I hear this new, so called country music I feel lousy. Quite honestly, these new guys are great singers, terrific musicians all, but their music just dont get it. Long winded, rambling stories and tunes that are really not good to listen to. They are fantastic dancers, performers and such, but the music HAS NOT GOT IT, AND THAT GOES FOR THE WOMEN AS WELL. Old timers like Merle Haggard, Kitty Wells Buck Owens, Lorettta Lynn and Tammy Wynett were playing music that made me want to sing and play also. It makes me feel good in my heart. If Im an old dinasaur, so be it. Modern country sucks. Don A.
|
|
|
| go with what ya know is right |
|
|
|
| That seems to be what the derailers have forgotten on this album or maybe they are just being led by nashville establishment to a path more pop.I love the derailers really i do. Got turned onto them in Richmond VA and saw them in San Francisco. One of my favorite groups. this album unfortunately was a true let down I listened to it twice through and could not listen to it again.Talented they are. Great voices, great licks. Just do what you know is right....real country.
|
|
|
| go with what ya know is right |
|
|
|
| That seems to be what the derailers have forgotten on this album or maybe they are just being led by nashville establishment to a path more pop.I love the derailers really i do. Got turned onto them in Richmond VA and saw them in San Francisco. One of my favorite groups. this album unfortunately was a true let down I listened to it twice through and could not listen to it again.Talented they are. Great voices, great licks. Just do what you know is right....real country.
|
|
|
| Country Retro |
|
|
|
| If you believe country music started with Garth Brooks and Kenny Chesney, move on to something else now.If, on the other hand, you understand the sounds, moods and roots of country and western music, this is the group youve been waiting for since Garth, et al, pop-ularized the country charts. The inheritors of the legacy of Hank, George Jones and a host of others have arrived; they are The Derailers.
|
|
|
| Country Retro |
|
|
|
| If you believe country music started with Garth Brooks and Kenny Chesney, move on to something else now.If, on the other hand, you understand the sounds, moods and roots of country and western music, this is the group youve been waiting for since Garth, et al, pop-ularized the country charts. The inheritors of the legacy of Hank, George Jones and a host of others have arrived; they are The Derailers.
|
|
|
| I think Buck wouldve done it this way |
|
|
|
| Youd swear that Buck Owens is singing these tunes. The Derailers debut shines with that good good ol Bakersfield country sound. Unfortunately, these guys decided to turn in their hearts after their second disc, Reverb Deluxe. They changed their style to a polished brand of country that would not not sound out of place in a retirement home or the Grand Ol Oprey. Hopefully (but dont count on it), theyll get back to their roots.
|
|
|
| I think Buck wouldve done it this way |
|
|
|
| Youd swear that Buck Owens is singing these tunes. The Derailers debut shines with that good good ol Bakersfield country sound. Unfortunately, these guys decided to turn in their hearts after their second disc, Reverb Deluxe. They changed their style to a polished brand of country that would not not sound out of place in a retirement home or the Grand Ol Oprey. Hopefully (but dont count on it), theyll get back to their roots.
|
|
|
| Nice Mix of Style and Attitude |
|
|
|
| This CD has something like the style of Buck Owens with the attitude of the Beatles. The result is a really fun collection that makes the steel and twang irresistable. Dont miss Raspbery Beret.
|
|
|
| THIS is what country should be |
|
|
|
| I first discovered the Derailers at South-by-Southwest in 1996, just as Jackpot was being released. Ive followed Brian Hofeldt and Tony Villanueva -- the two founding and constant members -- since then. This is, without a doubt, the best pure band in country music. And this is their best disc. Bar Exam couldve been written by Lefty Frizzell. All the Rage in Paris is nostalgic lament that Bob Wills would be proud of.PLEASE, COUNTRY RADIO, WAKE UP! Dump Shania and put these guys on!
|
|
|
| THIS is what country should be |
|
|
|
| I first discovered the Derailers at South-by-Southwest in 1996, just as Jackpot was being released. Ive followed Brian Hofeldt and Tony Villanueva -- the two founding and constant members -- since then. This is, without a doubt, the best pure band in country music. And this is their best disc. Bar Exam couldve been written by Lefty Frizzell. All the Rage in Paris is nostalgic lament that Bob Wills would be proud of.PLEASE, COUNTRY RADIO, WAKE UP! Dump Shania and put these guys on!
|
|
|
| watered down |
|
|
|
| Disappointing cd, watered down, main-stream, bland, pop-country.
|
|
|
| Genuinely disappointing |
|
|
|
| Sadly, another stinker from a once great band. I was hoping their previous two releases were anomolies--a bit of failed experimentation in a new pop-influenced sound--but, alas, this one is even worse. Gone is the fresh, tight Bakersfield sound and first-rate song writing. It is way too overproduced. Songs are forgettable and average. The once great Derailers have become another bland Nashville country act. I agree totally with Micheal Tolands review above. If you are fan of the Jackpot, Reverb Deluxe, Live Tracks Derailers, you will be genuinely disappointed with Genuine.
|
|
|
| Great Music from a Great Band |
|
|
|
| I love the mutliple influences and sounds of The Derailers. Genuine brings some new sounds - particularly The Wheel a lovely song. My other two favorites are I Love Me Some Elvis a fun tribute to the King and Uncool a fun social commentary that explains why I love The Dearilers, Ill do my own thing and be uncool. I am glad they do their own thing and play some great refreshing music. I never thought that my dad who forced me to watch Hee Haw and I would both love the same band so much.
|
|
|
| Derailers Are The Real Genuine Deal! |
|
|
|
| In a world of predictable, cookie-cutter Country music, The Derailers are breath of fresh air. By sticking to their musical roots (Buck Owens, Beatles) they have come up with a distinctive sound (a rarity these days) that kicks down the door and takes no prisoners. Genuine is the most fun you will have listening to a CD for years. There is not a fast-forward song in the bunch and they concentrated on their strong suit - upbeat, light-hearted Country-Rockabilly Bakersfield twang. The harmonies, clever lyrics, and infectious beat will stick in your head and have you driving faster than you realize. Even if Country Radio decides they are not worthy to be played into the ground like the more popular artists of today, true music lovers will continue to appreciate The Derailers music. This is their finest effort yet. Take a listen and you will become an instant fan.
|
|
|
| Good Stuff ! |
|
|
|
| Compared to the other reviews, where the critics seem to know this band very well, this one will be short and sweet. As a long-time country music fan, it is sad to see some of the artists and music that are considered country today. Like rock music, country has been ill-served by the video age--it would seem that looking good ( i.e. handsome, cute, whatever )is more important than the music itself. Not to name names, but some of country musics biggest artists today are more pop than real country.So the Derailers are a breath of fresh air. With the exception of the maudlin Elvis song, I enjoyed this set from start to finish--good songs, strong vocals, fine twangy musicianship--these guys deliver. Why not 5 stars ? Well--if I give the Derailers 5 stars, what do I give Merle Haggard ?In summary, if you like real country with a contemporary touch, rather than over-produced mush, get this CD--your pleasure will be Genuine !
|
|
|
| Dave Alvin who??? |
|
|
|
| The Derailers are one of my favorite bands. I think the new album Hear Come the Derailers is their best. Their past albums have songs I consider great and a few that are just good. The ones that are just good are still better than almost anything on country radio these days. This album is top notch from start to finish. Long live the Derailers no matter who produces.
|
|
|
| Dave Alvin who??? |
|
|
|
| The Derailers are one of my favorite bands. I think the new album Hear Come the Derailers is their best. Their past albums have songs I consider great and a few that are just good. The ones that are just good are still better than almost anything on country radio these days. This album is top notch from start to finish. Long live the Derailers no matter who produces.
|
|
|
| Dave Alvin who??? |
|
|
|
| The Derailers are one of my favorite bands. I think the new album Hear Come the Derailers is their best. Their past albums have songs I consider great and a few that are just good. The ones that are just good are still better than almost anything on country radio these days. This album is top notch from start to finish. Long live the Derailers no matter who the producer.
|
|
|
| Dave Alvin who??? |
|
|
|
| The Derailers are one of my favorite bands. I think the new album Hear Come the Derailers is their best. Their past albums have songs I consider great and a few that are just good. The ones that are just good are still better than almost anything on country radio these days. This album is top notch from start to finish. Long live the Derailers no matter who the producer.
|
|
|
| super good |
|
|
|
| punk twang? cow punk? country jam funk? Its great! Defies labels, reaches the heart and lives up the reputation of alternative country Especially good cuts: Cant Stop A Train and an amazing rendition of Princes Raspberry Bereta hidden track at the end...I used to listen to country-rock in the 70s...bemoaned the loss of it...but now these guys and others like em have brought it back-but even better
|
|
|
| full western dress |
|
|
|
| this is a definately must have cd
|
|
|
| Nicely Lo-Fi |
|
|
|
| I bought this after reading an article in the newspaper on them and I like it. Its simple straight ahead country. It is a live-in-the-studio (radio station) album so its not polished or professional, but that adds to the feeling.Highlights are the lead off track Big City Blues, the joyful Jackpot, Ill Catch You When You Fall and the rockabilly-ish Just One More Time.
|
|
|
| CD, Band are great |
|
|
|
| This is the Derailers first disc and it epitomizes fun music. If you have ever seen the Derailers live, you know that they give 150% to every show and are consumately professional entertainers. If you like twangy, somewhat old-timey music that played by a tight band and sung with a lot of heart, then give this disc a whirl. Sunsequent albums are also good -- this is the least polished, rawest album by the Derailers. I think that some are out of touch with what the Derailers are trying to achieve -- making high quality, fun, twangy music. This stuff is not meant to change the world or change your mind about issues of the day. Its fun music to dance to, to sing along to, and to play for friends.
|
|
|
| CD, Band are great |
|
|
|
| This is the Derailers first disc and it epitomizes fun music. If you have ever seen the Derailers live, you know that they give 150% to every show and are consumately professional entertainers. If you like twangy, somewhat old-timey music that played by a tight band and sung with a lot of heart, then give this disc a whirl. Sunsequent albums are also good -- this is the least polished, rawest album by the Derailers. I think that some are out of touch with what the Derailers are trying to achieve -- making high quality, fun, twangy music. This stuff is not meant to change the world or change your mind about issues of the day. Its fun music to dance to, to sing along to, and to play for friends.
|
|
|
| This is the type of country I remember growing up with!!!!! |
|
|
|
| Music with heart, a bass line hits deep in the heart, and a rythem you cant keep your feet from moving to. This is the type of music I remember growing up with... Not a bunch of glitz with no heart but something you can listen to over and over to. A friend of mine bought full western dress as a birthday present for me when he saw them at Houstons Continental Club. I couldnt stop listening to it and had to pick up my bass to play a few licks. Listening to Lovers Lie, Lost and Found,etc.. and youll know what I mean. Hey Steel Guitar still lives in Texas thanks to these guys!!(...) Im putting this review on every cd because after hearing them on Full Western Dress I bought everything else they had on here and was not dissappointed.
|
|
|
| This is the country I remember growing up with!!!! |
|
|
|
| Music with heart, a bass line hits deep in the heart, and a rythem you cant keep your feet from moving to. This is the type of music I remember growing up with... Not a bunch of glitz with no heart but something you can listen to over and over to. A friend of mine bought full western dress as a birthday present for me when he saw them at Houstons Continental Club. I couldnt stop listening to it and had to pick up my bass to play a few licks. Listening to Lovers Lie, Lost and Found,etc.. and youll know what I mean. Hey Steel Guitar still lives in Texas thanks to these guys!!!!!!!!! Im putting this review on every cd because after hearing them on Full Western Dress I bought everything else they had on here and was not dissappointed.
|
|
|
| This is the type of country I remember growing up with!!! |
|
|
|
| Music with heart, a bass line hits deep in the heart, and a rythem you cant keep your feet from moving to. This is the type of music I remember growing up with... Not a bunch of glitz with no heart but something you can listen to over and over to. A friend of mine bought full western dress as a birthday present for me when he saw them at Houstons Continental Club. I couldnt stop listening to it and had to pick up my bass to play a few licks. Listening to Lovers Lie, Lost and Found,etc.. and youll know what I mean. Hey Steel Guitar still lives in Texas thanks to these guys!!!!!!!!! Im putting this review on every cd because after hearing them on Full Western Dress I bought everything else they had on here and was not dissappointed.
|
|
|
| This is the type of country I remember growing up with!!!!! |
|
|
|
| Music with heart, a bass line hits deep in the heart, and a rythem you cant keep your feet from moving to. This is the type of music I remember growing up with... Not a bunch of glitz with no heart but something you can listen to over and over to. A friend of mine bought full western dress as a birthday present for me when he saw them at Houstons Continental Club. I couldnt stop listening to it and had to pick up my bass to play a few licks. Listening to Lovers Lie, Lost and Found,etc.. and youll know what I mean. Hey Steel Guitar still lives in Texas thanks to these guys!!(...) Im putting this review on every cd because after hearing them on Full Western Dress I bought everything else they had on here and was not dissappointed.
|
|
|
| Bakersfield inspired 1996 debut from Austin, TX foursome |
|
|
|
| The Austin, TX based Derailers 1996 debut was an oddly ironic breath of fresh air on the alt.country scene. While others got exercised distancing themselves from country musics commercial directions and cozying up to variously defined `roots, the Derailers whole-heartedly embraced a sound that had struck immense commercial gold in its initial go-round as an outsider sound. The derivation of Jackpot from Buck Owens Bakersfield classics is a short one: the bands twangy twin Fenders, rock `n roll energy, and, most of all, chill-inducing vocal harmonies (courtesy of singers/guitarists/songwriters Tony Villanueva and Brian Hofeldt) left no doubt as to their own chosen roots.While many of their tunes could have been lifted from the good pages of the Buck Owens songbook, their inheritance is a lot more than a genuflecting novelty. The call-and-response vocal of the opener, My Heart s Ready, is vintage Buck and Don, but voiced with a youthfulness and vitality that speaks more to influence and reverence than to imitation and rote re-utterance. Lies, Lies, Lies builds from down-trodden verses to a harmony chorus whose defeat overshadows the feigned stridency, and One Hundred Percent Pure Fool, mixes killer riffs, dancing steel guitar and clever alliteration into a sing-a-long gem.Hofeldt and Villanuevas adopted Lone Star home has shaped their singing into nearly perfect drawls, all but obliterating their Oregon origins. Their twangy guitar playing includes the requisite tick-tack rhythms and bass string runs, supplemented by superb pedal steel from Scott Walls, and fiddle from Erik Hokkanen. Producer Dave Alvin remains mostly behind the scenes, capturing a band sound that would be just as home in a honky-tonk as on CD.Subsequent releases would find the Derailers expanding their sound, incorporating additional country, pop and rock influences with which they grew up. Jackpot provides their undiluted shot of the Bakersfield sound. Texas Music Groups reissue of the 1996 original adds an early, faster, version of Just One More Time, a song that would eventually lead off their second LP, Reverb Deluxe. Its a nice addition to the twelve tracks that already stood tall on their own.
|
|
|
| Bakersfield inspired 1996 debut from Austin, TX foursome |
|
|
|
| The Austin, TX based Derailers 1996 debut was an oddly ironic breath of fresh air on the alt.country scene. While others got exercised distancing themselves from country musics commercial directions and cozying up to variously defined `roots, the Derailers whole-heartedly embraced a sound that had struck immense commercial gold in its initial go-round as an outsider sound. The derivation of Jackpot from Buck Owens Bakersfield classics is a short one: the bands twangy twin Fenders, rock `n roll energy, and, most of all, chill-inducing vocal harmonies (courtesy of singers/guitarists/songwriters Tony Villanueva and Brian Hofeldt) left no doubt as to their own chosen roots.While many of their tunes could have been lifted from the good pages of the Buck Owens songbook, their inheritance is a lot more than a genuflecting novelty. The call-and-response vocal of the opener, My Heart s Ready, is vintage Buck and Don, but voiced with a youthfulness and vitality that speaks more to influence and reverence than to imitation and rote re-utterance. Lies, Lies, Lies builds from down-trodden verses to a harmony chorus whose defeat overshadows the feigned stridency, and One Hundred Percent Pure Fool, mixes killer riffs, dancing steel guitar and clever alliteration into a sing-a-long gem.Hofeldt and Villanuevas adopted Lone Star home has shaped their singing into nearly perfect drawls, all but obliterating their Oregon origins. Their twangy guitar playing includes the requisite tick-tack rhythms and bass string runs, supplemented by superb pedal steel from Scott Walls, and fiddle from Erik Hokkanen. Producer Dave Alvin remains mostly behind the scenes, capturing a band sound that would be just as home in a honky-tonk as on CD.Subsequent releases would find the Derailers expanding their sound, incorporating additional country, pop and rock influences with which they grew up. Jackpot provides their undiluted shot of the Bakersfield sound. Texas Music Groups reissue of the 1996 original adds an early, faster, version of Just One More Time, a song that would eventually lead off their second LP, Reverb Deluxe. Its a nice addition to the twelve tracks that already stood tall on their own.
|
|
|
| The BEST Texas Honkytonk Music |
|
|
|
| This is REAL country. The harmonies are wonderful, the lyrics are amazing, and the music is easy to dance to. Whats really amazing about this CD is its live. These guys are so smooth, youd think it was recorded in a studio. I have listened to this CD hundreds of times and love it just as much as I did the first time I heard it.
|
|
|
| Some honky-tonk gems and some less successful hybrids |
|
|
|
| Austins kings of Bakersfield honky-tonk have turned out an adventurous third LP, mixing letter-perfect Buck Owensisms with sounds from The Beatles, The Byrds, and Roy Orbison.Singer-songwriter-guitarists Tony Villanueva and Brian Hofeldt are masters of the careening duet style Owens perfected with his partner, Don Rich. Whether singing harmonies on The Right Place or trading lines on Someone Elses Problem, the duos vocals are as punchy as their Telecasters. On the superb originals Me, Myself and I, The Lost and Found, and a haunting cover of Play Me the Waltz of the Angels (featuring Bucks Owens), Villanueva provides enough tears to overflow a whole bar.The disc falters on pop hybrids like Just to Spend the Night With You and a galloping remake of the Crystals Then He Kissed Me. Fellow travelers like the Mavericks and Dwight Yoakam took several tries to find their balance, so its not surprising that the Derailers combination of strumming acoustics, twangy electrics and double-tracked vocals isnt yet fully fermented. While searching for a unique combination of their honky-tonk and radio-pop influences, they continue to play country music with a vitality matched by few of their contemporaries.3-1/2 stars ...
|
|
|
| New Found Country |
|
|
|
| Saw these guys last month on Austin City Limits. First time I had ever seen or heard of them but what can you expect from the make believe country music we get in the north east. Picked up this album after going onto the Derailers website.
|
|
|
| Move the tape recorder closer to the stage! |
|
|
|
| An interesting artifact for gung-ho fans of this honky-tonk outfit (like me), but if youre a new Derailers listener/fan, stick with the studio LPs. Suffers from fidelity problems - muddy mix, inaudible (at times) vocals.Serves best as a change of pace when rotating frequently between Jackpot, Reverb Deluxe, and Full Western Dress.On the up side, there are a few songs here not found anywhere else and as the Derailers ascent continues this may become a valuable rarity.
|
|
|
|
Soldiers of Love
|
The Derailers Album Review:
What a big disappointment at 2006-07-10
I just saw the Derailers at the Beat Kitchen in Chicago. I was so excited to finally be getting to see this great band. Well the band I saw was ok, but they should change their name because they are no longer the Derailers. These guys were pop-country want-to-bes with little remaining style, wit, humor, emotion or those beautiful harmonies I truly grew to love. I left before the show was over. Ill keep playing the albums I have because they are top notch, but as far as I am concerned the Derailers no longer exist.
The Derailers Album Review:
Edward86 at 2006-07-08
Im always amazed at the way these guys stay true to their music. You will not find music that is Nashville savy for the sake sending one to the charts. They are genuine artists. This album again reflects their dedication to the cause and craft. There are definitely cuts that are worthy of commercial FM play : The one B4 Me, Shes a lot like TX,and Every time it rains Dont hold your breath though. You can still find them on satelite and digital radio. Worthy of your $ and time.
|
Genuine
|
The Derailers Album Review:
Good Stuff ! at 2003-05-02
Compared to the other reviews, where the critics seem to know this band very well, this one will be short and sweet. As a long-time country music fan, it is sad to see some of the artists and music that are considered country today. Like rock music, country has been ill-served by the video age--it would seem that looking good ( i.e. handsome, cute, whatever )is more important than the music itself. Not to name names, but some of country musics biggest artists today are more pop than real country.So the Derailers are a breath of fresh air. With the exception of the maudlin Elvis song, I enjoyed this set from start to finish--good songs, strong vocals, fine twangy musicianship--these guys deliver. Why not 5 stars ? Well--if I give the Derailers 5 stars, what do I give Merle Haggard ?In summary, if you like real country with a contemporary touch, rather than over-produced mush, get this CD--your pleasure will be Genuine !
The Derailers Album Review:
Great Music from a Great Band at 2003-06-02
I love the mutliple influences and sounds of The Derailers. Genuine brings some new sounds - particularly The Wheel a lovely song. My other two favorites are I Love Me Some Elvis a fun tribute to the King and Uncool a fun social commentary that explains why I love The Dearilers, Ill do my own thing and be uncool. I am glad they do their own thing and play some great refreshing music. I never thought that my dad who forced me to watch Hee Haw and I would both love the same band so much.
The Derailers Album Review:
Refreshing at 2004-06-30
I love The Derailers. This collection of tunes is the kind of country rock twang I love. I never cared much for the classicWaylon and Willie stuff! It didnt have the guitars and drums these guys have. Some songs are really good, some are average but I have Jackpot, Here come the Derailers, and Genuine. They all have great originality. I do like the way Kyle Lehning produced these albums. Dave Alvin produced Jacpot. Its good but the music isnt recorded as well as the other two. Sorry Dave! I think Genuine is a great song real modern twang youll love!So if you like country rock twang like Pete Anderson of Dwight Yoakam or Brent Mason and Brent Rowan youll like this one
The Derailers Album Review:
Genuinely disappointing at 2003-07-28
Sadly, another stinker from a once great band. I was hoping their previous two releases were anomolies--a bit of failed experimentation in a new pop-influenced sound--but, alas, this one is even worse. Gone is the fresh, tight Bakersfield sound and first-rate song writing. It is way too overproduced. Songs are forgettable and [average]. The once great Derailers have become another bland Nashville country act. I agree totally with Micheal Tolands review above. If you are fan of the Jackpot, Reverb Deluxe, Live Tracks Derailers, you will be genuinely disappointed with Genuine.
The Derailers Album Review:
Derailers Are The Real Genuine Deal! at 2003-05-20
In a world of predictable, cookie-cutter Country music, The Derailers are breath of fresh air. By sticking to their musical roots (Buck Owens, Beatles) they have come up with a distinctive sound (a rarity these days) that kicks down the door and takes no prisoners. Genuine is the most fun you will have listening to a CD for years. There is not a fast-forward song in the bunch and they concentrated on their strong suit - upbeat, light-hearted Country-Rockabilly Bakersfield twang. The harmonies, clever lyrics, and infectious beat will stick in your head and have you driving faster than you realize. Even if Country Radio decides they are not worthy to be played into the ground like the more popular artists of today, true music lovers will continue to appreciate The Derailers music. This is their finest effort yet. Take a listen and you will become an instant fan.
|
Here Come the Derailers
|
The Derailers Album Review:
go with what ya know is right at 2003-12-23
That seems to be what the derailers have forgotten on this album or maybe they are just being led by nashville establishment to a path more pop.I love the derailers really i do. Got turned onto them in Richmond VA and saw them in San Francisco. One of my favorite groups. this album unfortunately was a true let down I listened to it twice through and could not listen to it again.Talented they are. Great voices, great licks. Just do what you know is right....real country.
The Derailers Album Review:
Dave Alvin who??? at 2002-11-12
The Derailers are one of my favorite bands. I think the new album Hear Come the Derailers is their best. Their past albums have songs I consider great and a few that are just good. The ones that are just good are still better than almost anything on country radio these days. This album is top notch from start to finish. Long live the Derailers no matter who produces.
The Derailers Album Review:
Dave Alvin who??? at 2002-11-12
The Derailers are one of my favorite bands. I think the new album Hear Come the Derailers is their best. Their past albums have songs I consider great and a few that are just good. The ones that are just good are still better than almost anything on country radio these days. This album is top notch from start to finish. Long live the Derailers no matter who produces.
The Derailers Album Review:
THIS is what country should be at 2003-08-11
I first discovered the Derailers at South-by-Southwest in 1996, just as Jackpot was being released. Ive followed Brian Hofeldt and Tony Villanueva -- the two founding and constant members -- since then. This is, without a doubt, the best pure band in country music. And this is their best disc. Bar Exam couldve been written by Lefty Frizzell. All the Rage in Paris is nostalgic lament that Bob Wills would be proud of.PLEASE, COUNTRY RADIO, WAKE UP! Dump Shania and put these guys on!
The Derailers Album Review:
Country Retro at 2003-12-01
If you believe country music started with Garth Brooks and Kenny Chesney, move on to something else now.If, on the other hand, you understand the sounds, moods and roots of country and western music, this is the group youve been waiting for since Garth, et al, pop-ularized the country charts. The inheritors of the legacy of Hank, George Jones and a host of others have arrived; they are The Derailers.
|
Reverb Deluxe
|
The Derailers Album Review:
Great Twang, Great Songs at 2005-06-16
Like one of the other reviewers said - this is like a greatest hits CD. Theres 14 tracks, and 12 of them could be singles. (If you could actually find radio stations that play this sort of country). All the tracks have a few things in common - perfect, tight harmonies; great twangy guitar; great steel guitar. But each track has its own personality.I bought this CD in 1999. Its 2005 now. And I still love this CD. This is one of those rare CDs where every track is catchy enough to grab your attention from the first listen. But theres so many little details and extra little touches - that the tracks still stand up to MANY repeated listens.There are a few heartache numbers on this CD that I really love. (Cant Stop a Train, No One To Talk to But the Blues, Dull Edge of the Blade). But for the most part, this is an upbeat CD. It really puts me in a good mood, and makes me wanna dance!If you ever get a chance to see these guys live - dont miss it. These guys obviously have a great time on stage, and you cant help but catch a little of that good vibe!Some people would complain that these guys are re-hashing the Bakersfield sound. Like theres a problem with that? The Derailers pay homage to a great era of country music. And the songwriting is strong enough that they make a vintage style sound fresh.
The Derailers Album Review:
Reverb DeluxI at 2004-01-16
I like this type of honky-tonk/Bakersfield music. I became a real Buck Owens fan ten years after he dropped out of sight And when I hear this new, so called country music I feel lousy. Quite honestly, these new guys are great singers, terrific musicians all, but their music just dont get it. Long winded, rambling stories and tunes that are really not good to listen to. They are fantastic dancers, performers and such, but the music HAS NOT GOT IT, AND THAT GOES FOR THE WOMEN AS WELL. Old timers like Merle Haggard, Kitty Wells Buck Owens, Lorettta Lynn and Tammy Wynett were playing music that made me want to sing and play also. It makes me feel good in my heart. If Im an old dinasaur, so be it. Modern country sucks. Don A.
The Derailers Album Review:
Nice Mix of Style and Attitude at 2003-09-08
This CD has something like the style of Buck Owens with the attitude of the Beatles. The result is a really fun collection that makes the steel and twang irresistable. Dont miss Raspbery Beret.
The Derailers Album Review:
super good at 2002-10-28
punk twang? cow punk? country jam funk? Its great! Defies labels, reaches the heart and lives up the reputation of alternative country Especially good cuts: Cant Stop A Train and an amazing rendition of Princes Raspberry Beret[a hidden track at the end]...I used to listen to country-rock in the 70s...bemoaned the loss of it...but now these guys and others like em have brought it back-but even better
The Derailers Album Review:
This is the country I remember growing up with!!!! at 2001-12-23
Music with heart, a bass line hits deep in the heart, and a rythem you cant keep your feet from moving to. This is the type of music I remember growing up with... Not a bunch of glitz with no heart but something you can listen to over and over to. A friend of mine bought full western dress as a birthday present for me when he saw them at Houstons Continental Club. I couldnt stop listening to it and had to pick up my bass to play a few licks. Listening to Lovers Lie, Lost and Found,etc.. and youll know what I mean. Hey Steel Guitar still lives in Texas thanks to these guys!!!!!!!!! Im putting this review on every cd because after hearing them on Full Western Dress I bought everything else they had on here and was not dissappointed.
|
Full Western Dress
|
The Derailers Album Review:
watered down at 2003-08-07
Disappointing cd, watered down, main-stream, bland, pop-country.
The Derailers Album Review:
New Found Country at 2001-02-13
Saw these guys last month on Austin City Limits. First time I had ever seen or heard of them but what can you expect from the make believe country music we get in the north east. Picked up this album after going onto the Derailers website.
The Derailers Album Review:
full western dress at 2002-07-26
this is a definately must have cd
The Derailers Album Review:
Some honky-tonk gems and some less successful hybrids at 2001-06-05
Austins kings of Bakersfield honky-tonk have turned out an adventurous third LP, mixing letter-perfect Buck Owensisms with sounds from The Beatles, The Byrds, and Roy Orbison.Singer-songwriter-guitarists Tony Villanueva and Brian Hofeldt are masters of the careening duet style Owens perfected with his partner, Don Rich. Whether singing harmonies on The Right Place or trading lines on Someon | | |
