Rancho Deluxe – Self-Titled

Back when country-rock was viewed as alternative music alt-rock as well as alt-country you wouldnt have thought it would become a conservative staple. But even though thats the niche it now occupies, it can still inspire some vibrant contemporary sounds. Thats demonstrated by Los Angeles band Rancho Deluxe, which on its debut approaches the classic pedal-steel-embroidered sound the way a crooner might approach Sinatra, but makes it come alive through its conviction, intelligence and twangy hooks. Bloodlines flow through originals such as the yearning Steppin Off The Line and the barroom-ready Rock Bottom: Guitarist Jesse Harris and bassist Graham Harris, the core of the band along with deep-voiced singer and guitarist Mark Adams, are the sons of latter-day Flying Burritos picker Greg Harris, who lends his support on banjo. Jay Dee Maness, onetime pedal steel man for Gram Parsons, is along for the ride, too, as is veteran drummer Don Heffington.