Crow Moses Does His Own Take On The Promised Land

Crow Moses seems to have found an ideal formula in the combination of sturdy roots rock and a producer fully capable of underscoring the drama and dynamic with knowing guidance and practical experience. Last time out, Moses had the Jayhawks’ Gary Louris at the helm. This time around, he equals that high bar by tapping Pat Sansone of Wilco to do the honors. Consequently, like its predecessor, Nightshades is the kind of album that would have served both Louris and Sansone and their respective outfits quite well back in the day. That prerequisite blend of heart-tossed balladry and rugged resolve is in an inexhaustible supply throughout in this sophomore set, whether expressed in the emotional insistence of ballads like “Wild Thing,” “I’ll Be Here For You” and “River of Doubt,” the folk finessed standout “Abraham,” or fully resolute rockers along the lines of “All My Life,” “Places” and “Stand Up Man.” Moses’ surging delivery takes on an anthemic edge, making for a sound that’s both insistent and affecting. Those who lean more towards reliable radio rock will also find satisfaction in “Gallows,” a song surprisingly reminiscent of Fleetwood Mac at full forward thrust, and the Tom Petty-esque designs of the darkly defiant “Calm Down.” In fact, there’s something here for enthusiasts of all stripes, suggesting that even after only two albums, Crow Moses’ music may be ready for the mainstream.