Rockin', honky-tonkin' music
Waiting to die | Central California | 08/11/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"A few clicks on a cymbol and somebody says "We're Rolling." And for 12 tracks that's exactly what Ruby Dee and the Snakehandlers do. Think rock 'n' roll (not "rock"), honky tonk, hard country. This has the energy of the Blasters, but unlike the Blasters, it isn't so over-produced as to have the blood drained out of it. Ruby Dee channels Wanda Jackson, Patsy Cline, Brenda Lee and Rose Maddox. Songs of love, heartbreak and survival. This excellent band serves up their own mix of Marshal Crenshaw (who, you ask?), the Blasters, Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard and a little bit of Marty Robbins' horn section. They deserve a better review than I can write for them, but I hate to see this album go without somebody telling you how good it is. Be prepared to clear the livingroom floor for dancing. I would love to see them open for Chris Isaak or John Fogerty. That would be a great night!"