Lost Son
Uncle Tupelo provided a blueprint for "alternative country" in 1990 with the release of their debut,No Depression, a whirlwind of dynamic, passionate punk rock and rootsy country and folk. In the years since that pivotal record, alternative country has basically been transformed into a version of country rock that would make theEaglesproud. Portland, Oregon's Richmond Fontaine, however, have chosen to stay true to Uncle Tupelo's vision.Lost Sonburns bright, fueled by equal doses of high-octane punk and hard-luck country moonshine. It is at turns wistful, ferocious, sweet, discordant, and occasionally disturbing in both its lyrics and songs. Lead singer and guitarist Willie Vlauten spins tales as dark and twisted as the roots of an ancient Douglas fir and his Northwest vision of Americana is inspired as much by his surroundings as his musical influences, though you're never quite sure who the protagonists are in his aching, twangy narratives. Songs reach towering peaks of cascading, over-driven guitar chords and pounding drums, only to slip seamlessly into lush valleys of acoustic strumming and sylvan slide guitar. Though definitely more rock than country,Lost Sonnonetheless embodies all the best qualities of both and delivers them with an undeniable passion that references Tupelo'sNo Depressionyet is entirely unique.--Adem Tepedelen