'The Rattlehounds' The Rattlehounds, self
produced,2003

This CD sounds like garage rock with a bit of Country influence to me, although the band describes itself as alt.country. Either way, the first song on the CD was listed as the number one single on Village Voice's Pazz & Jop Critics Poll for 2003.  Like a lot of good rock/country, it is hard to figure out exactly what makes it sound so good. It's primitive, with simple guitar chords, no solos, and solid but not overly fancy production. Well, maybe that's why.
Of course, guitarist and vocalist Mark Coram has written six good songs here. And although the Rattlehounds are a trio (with bass and drums), the sound is filled out at the right spots with lap steel on  'I'm the Gun,' organ on 'Chasing Ghosts,' and
harmonica on 'Workin' For Love.'
The humorous Country song 'Would Elvis Like Me?' is one of the best songs, whereas on many CDs such a track would be condescending and distinctly unfunny.
It is unfortunate that the drummer, Michael Flannagan, died at age 41 soon after this CD came out.
He was also a journalist and radio announcer. At least he left a nice legacy with this EP.

- Dave Howell


http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/rattlehounds