From one of the most English of English cities — Oxford — hail as American-sounding band as might be found anywhere. The Epstein's reverent, acoustic-oriented take on bluegrass recalls the likes of Creedence Clearwater Revival or Calexico, and their vocal harmonies are clearly the result of an ardent fondness for the Byrds 'Sweetheart of the Rodeo. What the Epstein themselves bring to the mix is an acute but never overstated melodic sense — efforts to get "Leave Your Light On" out of your head after even one listen are likely to be futile — and the kind of wintry melancholy can only be the result of a more or less constant overhead view of grey cloud (this is possibly the principal advantage that British country acts can forever hold over their American inspirations). Though the Epstein's greatest strength are their baleful, pedal-steel drenched ballads — "Just the Wind," decorated with very Calexico-ish trumpets, is a particular highlight — they can also tear it up when the occasion demands it: album opener "Black Dog" whoops and hollers like prime Corb Lund.