Sleeping With the Blues is the first solo disc from Australian guitarist and songwriter
Bill Chambers. On this self-produced effort,
Chambers displays not only his musical prowess on a multitude of string instruments, including dobro and lap steel, but also his deep knowledge of American country, folk, and blues forms.
Chambers' choice of cover versions -- including
John Sebastian's "Stories We Could Tell,"
Fred Eaglesmith's "Big Ass Garage Sale," and
Mary Gauthier's "I Drink" -- fit right in with the overall Americana theme of his original compositions. The album includes appearances by neo-traditionalist country singer
Audrey Auld;
Chambers' band, Dead Ringer; and his daughter,
Kasey Chambers, who is a major star in Australia in her own right. Highly recommended. ~ Al Campbell