From the faded love song opening the CDâ€A Lot Of Days Are Gone,†a somewhat eerie feeling begins as Gaffney sings of time slipping away. This feeling, however, subsides as the listener is drawn to the powerful passion in each song. “Ordinary Fool†along with “I Still Believe†highlight why the Hacienda Brothers are well known for their soulful traditional country ballads.
Gaffney delivers perhaps the most moving performance with “Use To The Pain,†which was co-written by Gonzalez and producer Dan Penn. The lonely despair in this song permeates throughout, driving this poignant song home.
“Soul Mountain,†which was written by Gaffney, is an uplifting gospel revival number that paints a more joyous outlook on life. The contributing background vocals add to the fervor quite well.
The Hacienda Brothers include an outstanding instrumental entitled “Light It Again Charlie,†which allows Gonzalez to display his keen bluesy guitar, along with Joe Terry on Piano and Gaffney on accordion.
There are three covers included here, which add much to the variety. Connie Smith’s “I’ll Come Running†takes on a more Bakersfield sound. “When You’re Tired of Breaking Other Hearts,†written by Hank Williams is a well done shuffle by Gaffney. The vocal arrangements add to the haunting despair on Bill Deaton’s “Divorce Or Destroy.â€
The Hacienda Brothers fourth album is certainly their most poignant. Filled with a mixture of ballads, soulful country, and blues, this CD displays how the Hacienda Brothers had matured. With the unfortunate passing of Gaffney, one can only wonder where it goes from here.
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