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Billy Squire And The Rye: Truth and Reason

This is a confident, polished and well-written album which spans solo singer-songwriter fingerpicking (Chelsea Dreams), country-tinged rock (Into It) and jazzy blues (Blueland). If the wistfulness of the first two tracks isn't your bag, stay with it, because the attitude ramps up from track three onwards. Squire's guitar playing is accomplished throughout, exemplified in the section where he trades licks with the piano and fiddle on Cecilia, which reminded me of the outro of Richard & Linda Thompson's When I Get to the Border. Chicken Pickin' does exactly what it says on the tin - pure twangy fun! Saint Kevin's Arcade shows off more great guitar licks and a tasteful effected vocal line in the chorus. The last track My Own Roadie displays Billy's laconic side, with a tale that any musician will relate to. The company Squire keeps speaks to the quality of his musicianship. Among those appearing on the album are Reb Fountain and ubiquitous keys man Dom Blaazer. Catch Squire and his band on tour in October.

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