NO DEPRESSION
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2006
TEXAS SAPPHIRES, Valley So Steep (Stag)

Boasting the addictive harmony vocals of Billy Brent Malkus and Rebecca Lucille Cannon, a sweaty, tattooed take on classic country, and some great songs, the Texas Sapphires have earned a following down Austin way. Like the similarly geographically-defined band Porter Hall, TN, the Sapphires bring to mind X, but they put their own stamp on Valley So Steep. With punk backgrounds, Cannon (formerly of Sincola) and Malkus serve things up soulful but spirited. Bluegrass elements are nicely incorporated throughout, guided by Brother Paul Schroeder's mandolin and banjo playing. Co-producer Lloyd Maines and Kim Deschamps contribute their considerable steel and dobro skills, and Warren Hood helps out on fiddle. Main songwriter Malkus is fully versed in honky-tonk, expertly delivering heartbreak on songs such as "Cold Silver Ring", "Barstow Barstool" and "Deep Gap Blue". The band provides a rowdy, funky hoedown on "Ladyfest, TX", and "Bring Out the Bible (We Ain't Got a Prayer)" is as good as the title suggests. An accomplished debut. — ANDY TURNER, No Depression