Something to Believe In (CD - 2005)

Photographer: Buddy Ray .

There is something refreshing if a band can walk the tightrope between roots rock and alt-country without sounding too refined or pre-packaged. Fortunately, the honesty heard in the leadoff title track is a good omen of what's to come. Honeybrowne seem quite happy falling somewhere around the roots rock of the Connells with a slightly Southern feel like Steve Earle. They nail this format perfectly during "New Friends." Meanwhile, there is a slightly Tex-Mex stroll à la the Mavericks on "March of Life," with lead singer Fred Andrews sounding as if he's influenced by Chris Isaak. The band's ear for melodies is fantastic also on the precious "I'm Here," which resembles a refined B-side that didn't make Earle's Exit 0. However, "8 Roses" with its bluesy, slide guitar riff is a number that is a tad out of their niche or safety zone. The lighter, romantic material isn't bad either, with "Never Forget You" containing a soft but catchy melody that recalls a latter-day Bryan Adams. A few tracks are good on paper but lack something sonically as "My Turn to Hear You Cry" has a galloping beat throughout it but comes off like a sappy Rembrandts cover. The same can be said for the swaying, slow dance of "One Heart Ain't Enough." Fortunately the record doesn't end with a whimper but a lovely alt-country bang during "Take Me Home Tonight." It is a solid album from a promising group. ~ Jason MacNeil minimize