Melodyland

Personnel: Charles Walston (vocals, guitar, harmonica); Patrick Ronk (vocals, drums); Henry Burns, Page Waldrop (guitar); David Michaelson, Ed Bradley (drums).
Recording information: Channel One Studio Atlanta, GA; Furious Studio Atlanta, GA; Not Bad For Eight Track Shack A.
Photographers: Russell Lee ; Bill Berry .
The debut album from this Georgia-born quintet manages to capture both the essence and spirit of classic country and the soulful rawness of early rock & roll. Throughout the 11-song set, fun tunes like the catchy Western swing/rockabilly opener "Faking It" are mixed with sad ballads, such as the second song, "Tokens of Affliction." The latter begins with the lonesome wail of a harmonica, and builds with the haunting and mournful cry of Henry Bruns' superb pedal steel guitar. When Charles Walston opens his mouth, it's a classic and earnest country delivery, reminiscent of Gram Parsons. Walston is a remarkable songwriting talent, able to indulge in wordplay without sounding trite, and to supply melodies that sound instantly familiar, while remaining highly original. ~ Jack Leaver