Too Long In The Wasteland

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Sample Album
ALBUM INFORMATION

Total Tracks: 11   Total Length: 44:03

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I didn't mean to say it but I meant what I said

freeimprov

James McMurtry's first album is a beauty. With him, the songs always come first, elegant little character sketches about the casual injustices of small town life in America. The album also benefits from a terrific studio band, including heavy hitters like drummer Kenny Aronoff (remember that "Jack and Diane" sound? That's him) and monster guitarist David Grissom, and John Mellencamp's blue-collar arena rock production. But make no mistake, it's the SONGS, delivered in a gravelly half-spoken monotone, that stick with you. He can do with lyrics what his famous father does with novels... hand you characters and situations that are utterly believable, and suck you right in. If you're an alt-country fan, this album is a must-have. And if you're just starting out with James McMurtry, this and Live in Aught-Three will give you a great picture of his talents.

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They Say All Media Guide

Having an in with a couple of famous people might have helped singer/songwriter James McMurtry get through the first swinging door into the music world — maybe — but his talents did everything else. This album, Too Long in the Wasteland, is his debut offering. It was produced by John Cougar Mellencamp. The album gives a clear sample of McMurtry’s gift of writing lyrics that can transfer in a few short words all that needs to be told to pull the listener into whatever setting or mood McMurtry has decided to create. His lyrics are stories, telling about everyday life, the predictability of work, the troubles of teens, and the pain of love when it isn’t all roses and sunshine. Maybe some of his writing talent comes from his father, author Larry McMurtry, known for penning tales such as Lonesome Dove. James McMurtry has a smooth, low voice that carries a Western twang from his life in Texas. Some of the songs on his first album are “Crazy Wind,” “Painting by Numbers,” “Shining Eyes,” and “Poor Lost Soul.” All 11 tracks on this debut were written by McMurtry. – Charlotte Dillon

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