Mollie O'Brien has a great voice and knows how to use it. It is perfectly feasible to believe she can sing anything. This time out,
O'Brien hits the ground running with Memphis Minnie's blues tune "In My Girlish Days." It is an amazing look back from a female perspective that climbs to new heights under Mollie's capable vocals. Just as enticing are "Denver to Dallas" and John Hiatt's "Love Like Blood." "Eleezah" is intoxicating with John Magnie's accordion, and Chuck Berry's "Brown Eyed Handsome Man" is presented in a smooth, easy style. The title track, penned by
Lucinda Williams, displays all of Mollie O'Brien's ability nicely. With a wide variety of tunes from traditional to
Willie Dixon to
Steve Goodman and
Randy Newman,
O'Brien creates a patchwork quilt of American roots music all sewn together with the strong threads that are her undeniable talent. ~ Jana Pendragon