Change of line-up: change of label
Dr.D.Treharne | Exeter, Devon, United Kingdom | 08/16/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is a re-issue of the 1979 Columbia album. The band had undergone a personnel change with the departure of Barry "Byrd" Burton, and his replacement Duncan Cameron certainly altered and added to, the overall sound of the band.There's not as much straight ahead Russell Smith material as on some of the Aces albums, but what there is is of the highest quality."Whispering in the night" is possibly the best, but "Say you lied" is as good. Elsewhere there are some interesting covers. The Al Green track "Love and happiness" comes out refreshed, and "If you gotta make a fool of somebody" avoids any relationship with the dreadful Freddie and the Dreamers version.Cameron co-wrote "Homestead in my Heart" and Joan Baez and Tracey Nelson get to sing background vocals.Nelson also contributes to Russell Smith's epic track "Rodrigo, Rita and Elaine". There's also selected use of the Muscle Shoals horn section.No sign here that the ARA were content to rest of their laurels. If you've got the two "twofers" you'll need this one as well. Highly recommended."
Aces in Their Places
Robert Allan Cook | Collierville, Tennessee United States | 10/29/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"When I bought this album on vinyl in '79 it stayed on my turntable for a month if for no other reason than the band played so many musical styles that I couldn't cop the licks fast enough. Though Love and Happiness was a highlight of this album, the song that stole the show was Say You Lied. It should be a standard for any kid who wants to play bluegrass. The Aces have always displayed the ability to turn a song into a masterppiece and this album is no exception. From the barroom standard of Lipstick Traces to the country-doleful Homestead to the playful exploits of a two-timer named Rodrigo this record is filled with music for everyone."
Track Listings (9) - Disc #1