Southern California singer-songwriter Sam Outlaw is like a breath air in his approach, not least among his attributes is his convincing handling of diverse styles of music. He traditional country compositions steeped in pedal steel guitar posses a great deal of Bakersfield country, a sheer joy on the likes of “I’m Not Jealous”; no less impressive are the melodic, gentle flowing odes “Love Her For A While” and on possessing a jaunty rhythm, “Angeleno” takes the listener south to the borderland area between America and Mexico.
Outlaw is a fast learner, and with him adapting from one style to another in a confident, relaxed manner the listener is likewise placed at ease. Immediately the record starts to roll to be more precise. Some of this is undoubtedly down to a man who to Sam’s utter amazement, expressed interest in working with him on his debut album Angeleno renowned recording, producer and world-class guitarist Ry Cooder. Produced by Cooder (and his son, Joaquin Cooder) and who plays either electric or acoustic guitar on every song he also called on Bo Koster (My morning Jacket), Taylor Goldsmith (Dawes), Gabe Witcher (Punch Brothers) and Chuy Guzman (Linda Ronstadt).
Songs of note include tear in your beer tune “Jesus Take The Wheel (And Drive Me To A Bar)” and the likewise must hear Southern California steeped “It Might Kill Me”. Both are treasures. Fueled in pedal steel, chunky electric lead guitar (Duane Eddy 1960s twang to it) his easy flowing vocals will rarely find a more comfortable slot. Slowing it down some Outlaw nails his heart to the mast on heart-wrenching ballad “Keep A Close Eye On Me” (that comes with nice female harmonies and tinkling of piano), and with a sombre edge “Old Fashioned” he shuffles along in accomplished fashion. Prior to Outlaw signing-off with multi-textured “Hole Down My Heart”. Like with a few songs, Outlaw and the players tease some of this and that to come up with something pleasing on the ear without becoming too commercial sounding.
Maurice Hope