Forget the mainstream. Enjoy the real thing.
Max E. Raines | Lancaster, Ohio U.S.A. | 03/14/2005
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This, to my knowledge, is the fourth release by Rex Hobart and The Misery Boys. The first, "Forever Always Ends," has a demo quality but does contain some promising songwriting. "The Spectacular Sadness Of...." is a well-rounded effort if a bit too tame. On their third, "Your Favorite Fool," Rex Hobart And The Misery Boys really hit their stride. This is nothing short of a hillbily magnum opus, full of kick-ass riffs and alternately heartbreaking and hilarious lyrics and singing that miraculously avoid caricature. "Your Favorite Fool" is a totally over the top piece of honky-tonk skronk.
The new one, "Empty House," is a more textured and focused collection that displays a relaxed, confident maturity. Rex Hobart's songwriting is solidly creative and The Misery Boys have become a powerful, sympathetic band. Their brand of country music resonates with influences from Merle Haggard, Johnny Paycheck and Gary Stewart (check out "I've Got A Heartache To Hide"). Who know, perhaps these guys will transcend their status as critics' darlings. I, for one, certainly hope so. This talent deserves widespread exposure. In a more just world, pop country bufoons like Kenny Chesney and Toby Keith would be hanging their heads in shame after listening to Rex Hobart And The Misery Boys.
Max Raines, aging raconteur/flat earth theorist"