Bruce Robison

austin american-statesman
"one of this year's top 10 cd's". - michael corcoran, music editor

Product Description:
Austin-based label focused on the best in original progressive country, singer-songwriter, folk, r&b, blues & jazz, primarily texas homegrown artists. also 2 releases recorded in london, england.

Bruce Robison

Bruce Robison,Bruce Robison,Vireo,Contemporary Country,Country,Popular Music

Average customer rating: A shorter, though excellent, Robison record

It Came from San Antonio Bruce Robison Manufacturer: Premium Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music Outlaw & Progressive Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Country Rock | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Folk General | Folk | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Folk General | Folk | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Country Folk | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Translated From Love Eleven Stories Peace, Love and Anarchy Easy Tiger Cimarron Manifesto ASIN: B000OONPFE Release Date: 2007-05-15

Tracks:

1. It Came From San Antonio
2. When It Rains
3. Lifeline
4. My Baby Now
5. Anywhere But Here
6. What Makes You Say
7. 23A

Amazon.com

From the childlike collage on the cover to the silly title to the short length, Bruce Robison's fourth album looks to be his slightest. But look and listen again. The pleasure that he and his steady Austin band--featuring a grip-tight rhythm section of George Reiff and Eddie Cantu and the twangy garage flair of guitarist Andrew Nafziger--take in playing together only underscores how they serve an unfalteringly strong, varied set of Robison originals. Opening with the roller-rink, go-go bop of the title track, an homage to the Sir Douglas Quintet, Robison sounds loose and alive. He sinks his soul into detailed family memories and travels on "When It Rains," a story song as wise and engrossing as any Guy Clark epic, while "My Baby Now," with its piano, strings, and Southern melancholy, sounds like a lost Randy Newman ballad. His catchiest tune, "Lifeline," with grand pop chorus, skipping rhythm, and harmonies from wife Kelly Willis, sounds like a future hit for a more glamorous country star. The band stretches out on "Anywhere But Here," rising through a good guitar and mandolin groove and then quietly closing the album with "23A," a love letter to those simple, enduring songs of "love and hope, laughter and tears," the kind passed around at the end of a long honky-tonk night. No songwriter working the borders of country and Americana writes them better than Robison. --Roy Kasten

Customer Reviews:

A shorter, though excellent, Robison record.......2007-05-31

Bruce Robison is one of those few songwriters who can take a simple lyric and make it profound. His voise is smooth, his style laid-back but intimate...his records flow like honey, although are usually more bitter than sweet; for, although they sound relaxed, Robison's songs usually deal with the darker side of life--heartaches, alcohol, homelessness, whatever gets you down.

IT CAME FROM SAN ANTONIO is another great Robison record; it's significantly shorter (only seven songs; we definitely would have prefered more material, but we'll deal with what we're dealt). The rollickin' title track kicks the set off; the rest is mostly mid-tempo balladry, though it never seems dull; Robison's lyrics keep your ears rivetted, waiting for the next bit of wisdom ("I thought I knew trouble, but the Devil laughed at me"). Bruce Robison is a songwriter's songwriter; the fact that he hasn't become a huge success yet speaks volumes about radio's failure to recognize true musical talent. He's had hits as a songwriter (George Strait's "Desperately" and "Wrapped," Dixie Chick's "Travellin' Soldier," Tim McGraw's "Angry All the Time") but has yet to gain recognition on his own. One of these days, he will; until then, we can sit back and listen to one of the best kept secrets in country music.

Average customer rating: Too bad he doesn't get more mainstream airtime. Finely crafted songs from terrific Texas tunesmith Yet another stellar album by this masterful singer/songwriter

Eleven Stories Bruce Robison Manufacturer: Sustain Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: This World We Live In It Came from San Antonio Wrapped Translated From Love Unsung ASIN: B000EPFD8A Release Date: 2006-04-04

Tracks:

1. Every Once In A While
2. Virginia
3. Tennessee Jed
4. More and More
5. Days Go By
6. All Over But The Cryin'
7. Don't Call It Love
8. You Really Let Yourself Go
9. I Never Fly
10. Kitchen Blues
11. Bandera Waltz

Amazon.com

As a performer, Bruce Robison isn't nearly as well known as his wife, Kelly Willis (who contributes plenty of duet and background vocals here); his brother, Charlie Robison; or his sister-in-law, Emily Robison of the Dixie Chicks. But top country artists all know him and eagerly await each of the songwriter's albums, because they invariably introduce hit-bound material (the Dixie Chicks, George Strait, and Tim McGraw have all scored big with his songs). The smash-just-waiting-to-happen here is the album's centerpiece, "All Over But the Cryin'," a romantic ballad about hanging on to a relationship that has lost its spark. The bittersweet "Don't Call It Love" also has plenty of commercial possibility, though Robison's strength as a songwriter is that he never sounds like he's writing to formula or with an ear toward radio. His well-crafted material just goes down as easily as the acoustic, folkish arrangements that dominate the album. His gentle melodies and vocal warmth belie the comparative darkness of "Days Gone By" and the regret of "Every Once in Awhile," while the hardcore roadhouse of "You Really Let Yourself Go," evoking the Buck Owens/Dwight Yoakam school, provides a chance of pace. The choice of covers makes this Robison's most varied release to date, as "Tennessee Jed" highlights the back-porch country side of the Grateful Dead, "More and More" (a duet with Wills) channels Webb Pierce, and "Bandera Waltz" toasts Robison's hometown in the Texas hill country. --Don McLeese

Customer Reviews:

Too bad he doesn't get more mainstream airtime........2006-08-11

Eleven Stories is a good collection of well written songs and well selected covers. Bruce Robison is a great songwriter and has not faultered on this album. Lots of good musicians helping out too(Keith Gattis, Kelly Willis, etc.)

They lyrics are emotional and touching and the music is great. His songs always find a way to hit home. Unlike some songwriters you always seem to know what Bruce is singing about, even if you don't know. Great music for Sunday drive or and afternoon hanging outside.

Finely crafted songs from terrific Texas tunesmith.......2006-04-26

Robison's career as a songwriter (Dixie Chicks' "Travellin' Soldier," Tim McGraw's "Angry All the Time," etc.) has always overshadowed his own recorded work in commercial circles. This latest collection of eleven tunes (eight of which are originals), played and sung in his typically laid-back manner, isn't likely to reverse that equation. Robison's a pleasing singer, but he doesn't have the head-turning voice of his wife (Kelly Willis, who provides additional vocals here) or the magnetic star-quality of his brother (Charlie), and though his trio of bands (neatly annotated as to which appears on each track) provide strong support, the home-spun productions occasionally sound more like demos than finished mixes.

That said, Robison's fans buy his albums for the songs, and he's certainly delivered another strong set, including well-picked covers of The Grateful Dead ("Tennessee Jed," sporting a Jerry Garcia styled vocal), Webb Pierce ("More and More," as a duet with Willis that is a vocal highlight), and the hometown swing chestnut "Bandera Waltz." Robison's originals are beautifully crafted observations of life, including the dark first-person voice of homelessness, "Days Go By," and the weary end-of-romance "All Over But the Cryin'." The latter is a perfect example of Robison's craft, at home in this indie skin, but itching for a more polished chart-bound Nashville production.

Robison can crank up the Texas honky-tonk, as on the two-stepping "You Really Let Yourself Go," but his heart is clearly that of a folky, with "Every Once in A While" playing warm reminiscences against the cold realities of lost love, "I Never Fly" sung low and intimate, and "Kitchen Blues" turned inward and contemplative. All in all, a compelling set of songs, many of which match Robison's low-key performances, and several of which await more highly produced reinterpretations. [?2006 redtunictroll at hotmail dot com]

Yet another stellar album by this masterful singer/songwriter.......2006-04-09

Bruce Robison has a knack. I'm not quite sure what it is, but it exists. Whatever it is, it allows him to tap into raw emotion, brutal honesty--to grab your heart with a lyric and smooth vocals, wrench it out of your chest, give it a lecture on heartbreak, and then put it back safe and sound. A rather gruesome analogy, perhaps, but that's how I feel after I listen to a Bruce Robison album--whether it's one I'm listening to for the first time, such as ELEVEN STORIES, or one I've owned for years.

The songs on this album are, indeed, stories. Stories about love and loss, about moving through life and doing what you have to. His own originals continue the melancholy, this-is-the-way-it-is theme of his previous effort, COUNTRY SUNSHINE, and are just as good as the tunes on that marvelous album. There's the desperate "Days Go By" (don't you dare confuse this with the Keith Urban song; if you do, there is no reason why you should be reading this review, or even purchasing this album), the whimsical "You Really Let Yourself Go," the whistful "Every Once in A While." His choice of covers--"Tennessee Jed," "More and More," and "Bandera Waltz"--come off sounding just as good as his own tunes. The overall effect is yet another masterpiece by one of today's best singer/songwriters. Combining traditional and cutting edge folk with raw, unbridled country music, Robison continues to craft music that skirts the edges of Nashville mainstream, but proves itself just as good--even better, in most instances--than the music of his mainstream peers. If you're not already a fan of Robison's music, ELEVEN STORIES is a fine place to start. If you ARE a fan of his music...then why are you reading this? You already know you're getting a great album. Buy it already!!!

Average customer rating: Superb Alternative country...Texas style! amazing amazing If you like Willis Alan Ramsy you'll love Bruce.

Wrapped Bruce Robison Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Country General | Country | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Country General | Country | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Country | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Eleven Stories Long Way Home from Anywhere Bruce Robison Life of the Party Good Times ASIN: B000006O7Y Release Date: 1998-05-19

Tracks:

1. Rayne, Louisiana
2. Wrapped
3. Angry All The Time
4. When I Loved You
5. My Brother & Me
6. Desperately
7. 12 Bar Blues
8. Go To Your Heart
9. I Dream Too
10. End Like That
11. Don't You Ever Call My Name
12. See You Around

Customer Reviews:

Superb.......2005-09-10

Bruce Robison is quickly becoming one of my favorite country artist and this album is one reason why. "My Brother & Me" is my favorite track on this album, but is by no means the only one you'll want to listen to over and over. Excellent for anyone who enjoys good music. Also, check out Charlie Robison, Bruce's brother, if you like this album.

Alternative country...Texas style!.......2002-04-28

Bruce Robison is probably one of the best singer/songwriters out there. He stands alone from his brother Charlie and his sister-in-law Emily (Dixie Chicks). He has proven his songwriting abilities through numerous songs recorded by other arists (including Tim McGraw's "Angry All The Time", included on this CD).

Bruce starts the album off with "Rayne, Louisiana," a duet with his brother about leaving the small town for the city. "Wrapped" is a catchy love-song, basically about love at first sight, time and time again. "Angry All The Time" is much better than McGraw's version, and "When I Loved You", a duet with his wife Kelly Willis, is about ignorance of love until after the fact.

"My Brother and Me," probably the highlight of the album, is sang like an autobiography--and for all I know, it is! "Desperately" as a haunting melody, but "12 Bar Blues" comes out swinging honkey-tonk style. "Go To Your Heart" stands out on the album, for it is a slow ballad of love. "I Dream Too" is uplifting, but "End Like That" brings you back to Earth, for it asks why couldn't a relationship end in a better way? The final two tracks, "Don't You ever Call My Name" and "See You Around" are bluegrass songs, and make a nice ending.

I know that was long and probably boring, but I had to explain the CD song-for-song so you could know the range of moods and themes it carries. Bruce Robison is like no other, able to place words exactly where they are needed, then use his voice to reach out and grab your heart for dear life. Buy this CD. There's no way in Heaven or Hell that you won't be moved by it.

amazing.......2001-05-08

this is an amazing disc. Try to find the original release of this album, by the same title, that has 2 tracks not included on this version. Still a great addition to any music collection.

amazing.......2001-05-07

this is an amazing disc. Try to find the original release of this album, by the same title, that has 2 tracks not included on this version. Still a great addition to any music collection.

If you like Willis Alan Ramsy you'll love Bruce........2001-02-23

Bruce is one of the best song writer in country music today. Wrapped is not the Formula Pretty Boy music that is being played today on 99% of so called country radio --- it's just real good Texas music. If you try it and like it, than I would also recommend his CD titled "Long way home from anywhere". Happy trails.......

Average customer rating: dressed in black-j.cash tribute The best tribute (so far) Straight A's 4 This Tribute Disc! A Nice Tribute Great Disc with one flaw

Dressed in Black - A Tribute to Johnny Cash Various Artists Manufacturer: Dualtone Music Group ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music General | Compilations | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music Similar Items: Kindred Spirits: A Tribute to the Music of Johnny Cash Timeless: Hank Williams Tribute Lonesome, On'ry And Mean: A Tribute to Waylon Jennings Touch My Heart: A Tribute to Johnny Paycheck Cash From Chaos: A Tribute to the Legendary Man in Black: Johnny Cash ASIN: B00006BN84 Release Date: 2002-09-17

Tracks:

1. Wreck of the Old '97 - Hank III
2. Cry, Cry, Cry - Robbie Fulks
3. Ballad of a Teenage Queen - Rodney Crowell
4. I Guess Things Happen That Way - Raul Malo
5. There You Go - Chuck Mead
6. Get Rhythm - Rev. Horton Heat
7. Pack Up Your Sorrows - Bruce Robison and Kelly Willis
8. Ring of Fire - Billy Burnette
9. Luther Played the Boogie - Redd Volkaert
10. Big River - Rosie Flores
11. Folsom Prison Blues - James Intveld
12. I Still Miss Someone - Earl Poole Ball
13. I'm Gonna Sit on the Porch and Pick On My Old Guitar - Damon Bramblett
14. I Walk The Line - Dale Watson
15. Train of Love - Kenny Vaughan
16. Straight A's in Love - Eddie Angel
17. Jackson - Mandy Barnett & Chuck Mead
18. Flesh & Blood - Chris Knight

Amazon.com

As befits a release on a fledgling indie label, Dualtone's tribute to Johnny Cash celebrates the feistier fringes of the Man in Black's catalog, adding a few mainstream milestones. In what is plainly a labor of love for all concerned, highlights extend from the pop innocence of "Ballad of a Teenage Queen" by Rodney Crowell (formerly married to Johnny's daughter Rosanne) to the folkier strains and husband-and-wife harmonies of "Pack Up Your Sorrows" by Bruce Robison and Kelly Willis to the honky-tonk majesty of "I Still Miss Someone" by pianist Earl Poole Ball. Some of the more familiar touchstones don't fare quite as well, with Billy Burnette turning in a tepid "Ring of Fire" and Dale Watson singing in a lower than comfortable register on "I Walk the Line," though James Intveld rises to the challenge of "Folsom Prison Blues." The house band and the largely acoustic arrangements give the 18-cut album more unity than many such projects, as the collection shows why one of the most influential and commercially successful artists in country's history remains an icon of alt-country as well. --Don McLeese

Customer Reviews:

dressed in black-j.cash tribute.......2007-05-27

not many tribute albums are worth a 2nd listen,not the case here however with the likes of hank III & rev.horton heat you can listen to this one over & over with out hearing a generic pop country artist murder a cash classic, most of the songs here are done quite well, some just stand out more than others,a must have for cash fans!

The best tribute (so far).......2006-05-09

The whole spirit of this CD takes me back to my teenage years in the late '50s, when we listened to Johnny Cash's Sun singles (along with Jerry Lee Lewis and Bill Haley) on the juke box. In addition to the excellent renditions of Cash's music, this collection introduced me to a few excellent singers who had somehow managed to slip by under my radar. In particular, I love Robbie Fulks' version of "Cry, Cry, Cry"--what a fantastic singer/songwriter! Surprisingly, the singer who sounds most like a young Cash (without seeming to imitate him) is the very Reverend Horton Heat on "Get Rhythm." Another is Chuck Mead's "There You Go." Hank III gives his own unique take on "Wreck of the Old '97." Sounding more like his own grandfather, it's certainly not the way Johnny Cash did it, but he nevertheless captures the bare tragedy and heroic spirit of the song. "Pack up Your Sorrows" was a favorite during the '60s, but I barely remember Johnny Cash singing it. The most familiar version was by Richard & Mimi Farina, and Kelly Willis and Bruce Robinson faithfully capture the spirit of their version. The other song that stands out is "Straigh A's in Love" by Eddie Angel. It's often forgotten that Johnny Cash was not primarily a country singer. Beginning with his classic work at Sun Studio, he pretty much invented the rockabilly sound, and it is this spirit that is well represented here. Get this CD and keep it in your car to brighten up those pesky commutes.

Straight A's 4 This Tribute Disc!.......2005-03-26

There is some excellent music on "Dressed In Black: A Tribute to Johnny Cash." Chris Knight is one of those musicians that always sparks my interest; his version of "Flesh & Blood" is such a plaintive laid back reading of this song that it gives an emotional mix of loneliness, hope & desire. It closes the set, but is one of the highlights for me. Eddie Angel's rockabilly "Straight A's In Love" is a naughty little tune that puts a smile on my face each time it comes on the changer. :) Austin songwriter Damon Bramblett's take on "I'm Gonna Sit on the Porch & Pick on My Old Guitar" may not seem polished, but it does exude a warmth that brings me into the music. Chuck Mead from BR5-49 produced this disc and plays on every track. His lead vocals on "There You Go" set your toe tapping, "You're gone again, I should'a known I couldn't win...He's by your side, you're gonna break another heart, you're gonna tell another lie." The Mavericks' Raul Malo sounds a bit like Chris Isaak to me on the slow shuffle of "I Guess Things Happen That Way." Rodney Crowell has been recording a series of great solo sets as well as with the Notorious Cherry Bombs. Here he turns a straightforward reading of "Ballad of a Teenage Queen." Robbie Fulks' "Cry, Cry, Cry" booms with great energy. No one will ever replace Johnny Cash, but these artists do a great job with songs that he previously polished. Enjoy!

A Nice Tribute.......2004-02-24

Hank III's "Wreck of the Old '97" makes this disc worth owning. His daring to break out of the mold that so many other artists have poured this song into, while still respecting the original, is reason enough to add this CD to your collection.

Great Disc with one flaw.......2003-12-18

This disc is awesome! There's no beating Rodney Crowell, Redd Volkaert, and couple others. Now, I'm a Hank Fan also, and love what III does with his grandpa's music, but as for Wreck of the Old 97, he should be locked up. I wouldn't appear on anything rewriting a song that's been done for the past 75 years. Johnny, Hank Snow, all the ones I'd heard stuck very close to Vernon Dalhart's recording from the late '20s. III's almost made this disc a clay pigeon.

Average customer rating: Who wouldn't love this? Best Holiday Album In Years!!

Happy Holidays Kelly Willis , and Bruce Robison Manufacturer: Rykodisc ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music New Traditionalist | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Opera & Vocal | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music General Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music Similar Items: Translated From Love Eleven Stories West It Came from San Antonio Wintersong ASIN: B000H0M556 Release Date: 2006-08-29

Tracks:

1. Santa Baby
2. A Winter's Tale
3. In The Bleak Midwinter
4. Baby, It's Cold Outside
5. The Christmas Waltz
6. Please Daddy, Don't Get Drunk
7. Blue Christmas
8. Shut In At Christmas
9. Santa Looked A Lot Like Daddy
10. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
11. Oklahoma Christmas

Amazon.com

This expanded reissue of Willis and Robison's 2003 EP does precisely what the best Christmas albums have always done: reinterpret, revive, and refresh the tradition, while remaining intensely musical. The rotating cast of players--including young Austin pals Andrew Nafziger, Eamon McLoughlin, and Warren Hood, as well as keyboard ringers Chip Dolan and Floyd Domino--serve every song with the right balance of grit and glow. The arrangements, even when stringed up on "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," never cross the line into schmaltz and never overwhelm. The slowly swinging, jazzy opener, "Santa Baby," can't equal Eartha Kitt's definitive version, but Willis's restrained-but-sexy delivery comes close. While the band can't rock the twang quite like the Buckaroos, they still get a swampy romp out of Buck Owens's classic "Santa Looked a Lot Like Daddy" and an elegant electric piano-driven waltz from "Blue Christmas," which Willis delicately transforms into a country-soul aria. Robison's lead singing has never been powerful enough to score on the charts; here, he's just playful and amateurish enough to undercut the cornpone of "Please Daddy Don't Get Drunk" and scratchy and sincere enough to redeem the bathos of Charlie Louvin's "Shut In at Christmas." The closing Robison original, a live version of "Oklahoma Christmas," may never become a standard, but its honest and hilarious satire of homestead piety is classic--as is the whole album. --Roy Kasten

Album Description

Happy Holidays is classic Christmas with a cool country twist. From standards like "Baby It's Cold Outside" and "Santa Baby" to not so traditional tracks like "Please Daddy Don't Get Drunk," Happy Holidays is a musical Christmas card from Kelly and Bruce to their fans. They celebrate their favorite family season with "Santa Looked A Lot Like Daddy," "Oklahoma Christmas" and the classic "Blue Christmas."

Stirring up visions of sugarplums and sightings of Santa on the roof, Happy Holidays from Kelly Willis and Bruce Robison is so festive it might just make it snow in Texas.

Customer Reviews:

Who wouldn't love this?.......2007-01-09

Kelly Willis and Bruce Robison are amazing, as usual. Add this to your Christmas collection. You won't be sorry!

Best Holiday Album In Years!!.......2006-12-17

I usually purchase 3 or 4 holiday albums each year. So far, I have barely listened to the other two new albums. Why? Simply put, this recording is excellent! The song selection is delightful ranging from up-tempo country to a "jazzy" version of "Have youself a merry little Christmas". In my opinion, this "jazzy" version is one of the best arrangements of the holiday classic. Also included is "Blue Christmas", of which Elvis' version sets the standard. Kelly Willis' version has to come in a close second to that of the King.

From a technical standpoint, this recording is fairly clean with limited background hiss or noise. Those songs recorded live maintain the live concert feel and are quite cleanly recorded as well. My only criticism is the total recorded time is only slightly over 38 minutes. Total play time aside, this recording belongs on everyone's CD changer!

Average customer rating: But, It'd be a solid "5"without Charlie's cursing. Marginal Live Frat-Country CD A good sampler, Buy CDs from all 3 instead Toe Tappin' Good Music! Yowsa!

Unleashed Live Charlie Robison , Jack Ingram , and Bruce Robison Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Alt Country & Americana | Live Albums | Country | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Country | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Country General | Country | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Country General | Country | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Live Good Times Life of the Party Step Right Up Wrapped ASIN: B00004YC1O Release Date: 2000-09-26

Tracks:

1. The Good Life - Bruce Robison
2. Rayne, Louisiana - Bruce Robison/Charlie Robison
3. Angry All The Time - Bruce Robison
4. Red Letter Day - Bruce Robison
5. My Hometown - Charlie Robison
6. Sunset Boulevard - Charlie Robison
7. Loving County - Charlie Robison
8. Barlight - Charlie Robison
9. Mustang Burn - Jack Ingram
10. Work This Out - Jack Ingram
11. Travis County - Jack Ingram
12. Barbie Doll - Jack Ingram

Amazon.com

Outside of Texas, it's hard to grasp the Beatlemania-like frenzy that can be directed toward these marginally successful singer-songwriters. At a packed Texas honky-tonk such as Gruene Hall, however, the brothers Robison and adopted kin Jack Ingram go over like the Second Coming, which doesn't mean they don't earn the reception. The three Texans take no chances with material--everything but Ingram's "Travis County" has been cut elsewhere--and deliver their most anthemic and popular tunes in straight-shooting, full-band, Outlaw country style. Small flourishes save these 12 songs (recorded one night in December 1999) from abject predictability: Bruce's Western swing version of Joe Dickens's "Good Life," his wife Kelly Willis's sweet guest harmonies on "Angry All the Time," and Charlie's self-deprecating tone on "Sunset Boulevard." Unfortunately, Ingram turns in four of his slighter tunes, including the obnoxious frat-brat anthem "Barbie Doll," which only makes the call-and-response of his audience all the more suspect. But if you've never experienced Texas frat-country hysteria first hand, this live set will get you more than close enough to the party. --Roy Kasten

Customer Reviews:

But, It'd be a solid "5"without Charlie's cursing........2003-08-06

Hey, I drove a tractor trailer for a living for 15 years and I can curse with the best of them. So, I'm no prude.

But...

Charlie's unneccessary cursing in "Sunset Boulevard" wrecks an otherwise awesome song and an awesome Cd.

Having said that, it is an EXCELLENT CD overall, and it really makes me want to pack up and move to Gruene, Texas!

Marginal Live Frat-Country CD.......2001-10-13

I received an advance copy of this CD, and it's a good thing. I wouldn't pay for it. The best performances here are those of Charlie Robison's "Sunset Boulevard" and Brother Bruce Robison/Kelly Willis' collaborations, particularly "Angry All The Time." Ingram has not reached the songwriting competency level of the other performers, so his material is not as listenable as the rest. This music simply is not as important or as good as the music of fellow Texas songwriting alumni Steve Earle, Lyle Lovett, or Guy Clark. Indeed, of almost greater importance is the ambience of Gruehn Hall, which can render almost any performance memorable.

A good sampler, Buy CDs from all 3 instead.......2001-09-22

A live sampler of four songs each from brothers Charlie and Bruce Robison and fellow Sony/Lucky Dog labelmate Jack Ingram, this release provides a good introduction to all three artists. With the exception of "Travis County" by Ingram these songs are all available in studio versions. Diehard fans will want to have the CD to capture the feel of seeing these performers live. Someone not familiar with the artists may be inclined to purchase this CD to sample all three performers for the price of a single CD. If you like one, it's extremely unlikely you won't like all three, buy CDs from each instead.

The highlight of this release is "Angry All the Time" performed by Bruce Robison with harmony vocals by Kelly Willis that put the Tim McGraw and Faith Hill cover version to shame. The remaining tracks are all solid performances and a good cross section of songs from each artist.

Toe Tappin' Good Music!.......2001-04-19

How can you hate this album? True Texan style honky tonk. The performances are great for a live album. Bruce cranks out a great set that sets the stage for the rest of the album, starting with a splendid version of "The Good Life". Charlie kicks it in gear with a terrific version of "Sunset Blvd" and cleverly works in the name Lewinsky (you just gotta hear it!). "Loving County" still gives me chills, hearing it live gives you an idea that his potential has not even been tapped yet. Jack Ingram, who I am ashamed to say I knew nothing about before this album, won a new fan with his awesome music. From "Mustang Burn" to "Barbie Doll", this guy gives you everything he's got. The Texas attitude may be more than some folks can stomach. But if you want a taste of talented musicians that put heart and soul into the music, do yourself a favor and buy this album. I spent lots of time in Texas honky tonks, and these guys give you a real sample of quality music. You don't have to be from Texas to love this album. If you understand real country music, you will quickly find this to be one of your favorite albums in your collection.

Yowsa!.......2001-01-05

Throw in a little Springsteen, a little Mellencamp a little Lucinda Williams and a whole lot of Texas and this is what you get. Absolutely one of the best CDs I've heard in a long, long time.

Average customer rating: Great Texas songwriter finds his performing voice Bruce Robison knows how to deliver! too bad everybody is stealing his songs Great disc for ANY music lover. Great CD!

Long Way Home from Anywhere Bruce Robison Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Country General | Country | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Country General | Country | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Wrapped Country Sunshine Bruce Robison Eleven Stories Bandera ASIN: B00000JKPK Release Date: 1999-07-13

Tracks:

1. Drivin' All Night Long
2. Just Married
3. Red Letter Day
4. Travelin' Soldier
5. The Good Life
6. Trouble
7. Anymore Good Lovin'
8. What Did You Think
9. Emotionally Gone
10. Long Way Home From Anywhere

Amazon.com

James Taylor has cast a large shadow over today's country hit-makers, but for the most part, Nashville's earnest young troubadours more closely resemble such watered-down Taylor imitators as Dan Fogelberg or J.D. Souther than the man himself. Bruce Robison, the long tall Texan who married Kelly Willis, does one of the best country impersonations of Taylor because he understands the value of understatement. On his sophomore album, Robison fills his lyrics with so many visual details and gives his folkie melodies such a relaxed flow that he can afford a low-key, seductive vocal delivery, trusting the songs to take care of themselves. His subject matter--a waitress in love with a Vietnam soldier, a guy who wants to be more than a best friend to a woman, a giddy newlywed groom, a lonely man on the road--is well worn, and, except for one Western swing tune, the music has few traces of honky-tonk, but it is elegant singer/songwriter pop in the best Taylor tradition. --Geoffrey Himes

Customer Reviews:

Great Texas songwriter finds his performing voice.......2006-05-27

The brilliance of Bruce Robison's talent as a songwriter isn't always matched by his low-key delivery. He delivers his visions as keenly drawn four-minute musical novellas, but often undersells the intricate pictures with folk-styled recordings that leave larger stars to bring the songs to wider acclaim. No such problem this time out, as Robison steps up to a more electric sound without losing his singer-songwriter soul.

In "Travelin' Soldier" he renders youth-shattering loss with heartbreaking imagery and a haunting chorus that culminates on a seamless blend of classical strings, pedal steel, and harmony vocals from wife Kelly Willis. As fine as The Dixie Chicks cover may be, it can't match this version for storytelling. Robison's songs of marriage capture the exultation of love's bond ("Just Married" - performed at brother Charlie's marriage to Dixie Chick Emily Erwin) as well as the thornier realities of weddings ("Emotionally Gone"). He ranges from introspective ballads ("What Did You Think") to Texas-flavored honky-tonk ("The Good Life," "Red Letter Day") to electrified country road songs, and shifts effortlessly from the folky style of James Taylor to the rockier sounds of Steve Earle all while retaining a distinct lyrical voice.

Though Robison's catalog is chock-full of great songs, this release is easily my favorite of his performances. [©2006 redtunictroll at hotmail dot com]

Bruce Robison knows how to deliver!.......2002-08-07

In all honesty, Bruce Robison is probably the BEST country singer/songwriter living today. His music winds its way through your ears and into your heart...every song on this album is unforgettable and unbelievable, but I must restrict myself to just a few right now. The rest shall be an enticing mystery...

"Drivin' All Night Long" kicks the album off, a mournful tune of trying desperately to reunite with a loved one. "Just Married" tells of a marriage going down the drain, and "Red Letter Day" is a country-rockin' song of the blues ("It's a red letter day for the blues"). "Travelin' Soldier" is much better here than the Dixie Chicks' and Ty England's versions. It is probably the standout track, of a soldier going to war and those back home who love him. "What Did You Think" is typical Bruce Robison, a ballad of love and frustration. And the final song, the title track, is a good "road song"; a man who just doesn't belong in Nashville...or anywhere else.

His brother sings, his sister-in-law sings, but Bruce Robison stands alone. His talent is matched by few in the alternative country style, and his voice and lyrics are classic. Bruce Robison knows how to deliver a good CD...and "Long Way Home From Anywhere" is one of the best of them.

too bad everybody is stealing his songs.......2001-10-03

this is a very good album from an honest ,sincere singer/songwriter........i love every song,especially "trouble"......bruce reminds me kinda of james taylor.....it is hard to beleive that he and charlie are brothers

Great disc for ANY music lover........2001-05-07

This is Bruce Robison's third cd, if you don't count the first release of wrapped, which contained 2 tracks not available on the one available at amazon.com. This is great stuff, a true "must have" no matter what kind of music you prefer. If this is too mellow for you try his brother Charlie.

Great CD!.......2001-02-27

One of my favorite albums I have bought in a long time.

Average customer rating: Bruce Robison is the master of the singer/songwriters! Great Example of Austin Music This CD is just the beginning!

Bruce Robison Bruce Robison Manufacturer: Vireo ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Wrapped Eleven Stories Long Way Home from Anywhere Country Sunshine It Came from San Antonio ASIN: B000005GGA Release Date: 1996-07-16

Tracks:

1. Take It All Out On You
2. Torn And Tangled
3. House Of Man
4. Angry All The Time
5. Not Forgotten You
6. Travellin Soldier
7. It's Gonna Be Easy
8. Red Letter Pay
9. Lonely Too
10. Match Made In Heaven

Album Description

Austin-based label focused on the best in original progressive country, singer-songwriter, folk, r&b, blues & jazz, primarily texas homegrown artists. also 2 releases recorded in london, england.

Customer Reviews:

Bruce Robison is the master of the singer/songwriters!.......2003-05-16

This CD blew me away. I'm glad--because I've searched for it for a coupla years. I have become a Bruce Robison fan, and I wanted this CD; after a three-state search (don't ask), I finally ordered it off Amazon.com ....

On this CD, Robison takes you through a lyrical and styllistic wonderland. The upbeat and traditional opener, "Take It All Out On You," kicks things off, but "Torn and Tangled" brings it back down to a mellow tone--the theme of a one-night stand gone a little too far. "House of Man" is along the same themes, more or less (it's a reoccuring element on this album).

You've heard "Angry All the Time," whether Robison's version or Tim McGraw's (Robison's version here is the best I've heard; the same goes for "Travellin Soldier"). "Not Forgotten You" is about those that leave us, and the memories they leave behind..."It's Gonna Be Easy," the one song on here Robison didn't pen, has a somewhat bluesy feel to it, and his voice will wrap you up and carry you away. "Red Letter Day" features some great sax work, and "Lonely Too" hollows you out at the core--a guy realizing his ex probably didn't love him at all. But it is the last track, "Match Made in Heaven," that carries away the prize--a ballad of one night stands, and a man just searching for some hope in this world.

Bruce Robison can twist a song into a beautiful masterpiece; this album just conveys what a wonder he is. His voice was designed to sing his songs; and he writes about life, about love, and about the every day things we take for granted. What is Bruce Robison about? He's about country, that's what. Buy this CD, and experience the thrill that Bruce Robison, music's best singer/songwriter, can bring you.

Great Example of Austin Music.......2000-01-17

Owning all three of Bruce's major releases, I can honestly say that his first album is by far his best. His ability to write songs that connect with the listener is perhaps is best talent. This album is a perfect example of a great Austin songwriter at his best.

This CD is just the beginning!.......1999-10-27

I bought this CD on a whim at a local record store and quickly fell under its spell. From the first time I heard the songs "Angry all the time," and "Travellin' Soldier" I knew I was listening to a master songwriter. I've since bought copies of all of his CD's and I continue to be impressed.This CD can be hard to find so what are you waiting for? Snatch it up!

Average customer rating: Yet another masterpiece from a master singer/songwriter. Low-key return to songwriterýs indie roots has subtle charm

Country Sunshine Bruce Robison Manufacturer: City ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music General | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Long Way Home from Anywhere Eleven Stories Wrapped Bruce Robison Step Right Up ASIN: B00005QDC0 Release Date: 2001-09-11

Tracks:

1. Can't Get There From Here
2. Bed Of Ashes
3. Blame It On Me
4. Devil May Care
5. Valentine
6. Friendless Marriage
7. What Would Willie Do
8. First Thing About Mary
9. Sixteen
10. Anyone But Me
11. Tonight

Amazon.com

Recent success as a songwriter allows Bruce Robison to record on his own terms, as this self-produced, self-released collection attests. Rather than striving for radio hits, the writer responsible for Tim McGraw's smash "Angry All the Time" showcases his plainspoken, subtle, and droll songcraft with a minimum of production trickery. He collaborates with wife Kelly Willis on "Friendless Marriage," which sounds like a George-and-Tammy update, while other writing partners include Allison Moorer and the Dixie Chicks' Martie Seidel. Gary Allan has already covered the album's standout anthem, "What Would Willie Do," a tongue-in-cheek tribute to the messiah of progressive country, while Bruce's brother Charlie previously recorded the album-closing "Tonight." For other artists searching for quality material that transcends formula, the balladry of "Blame It on Me" has hit potential, though "Valentine," one of the best songs here, sounds so personal it's hard to imagine anyone singing it better than the reedy-voiced Robison. --Don McLeese

Customer Reviews:

Yet another masterpiece from a master singer/songwriter........2002-11-18

Here is the power of Bruce Robison: He can take eleven songs, all low-key, most rather mournful, and turn it into a brilliant work of art. If any other artist had recorded a CD like this, they would be criticized, downsized, and shut out. But Bruce Robison, by some twist of fate, was born with a talent for tellign stories, and a voice to tell them with.

"Country Sunshine" is full of personal, intimate ballads. "Can't Get There From Here," "Blame It On Me," and "Anyone But Me" tell the stories of men who know their love life is ruined, and who accept the fact. On the flip side, the heartwrenching "First Thing About Mary" shows us a man who is grasping at straws, not sure whether or not to believe his beloved is returning.

"Friendless Marriage" features wife Kelly Willis, whose voice blends well with Robison's in this tale of a couple stayign together out of habit. "Devil May Care" and "What Would Willie Do" (and there's only one Willie, people) are the only two songs on here that offer something obpimistic...and they are the only two that don't deal with love. "Valentine," "Sixteen," and "Tonight" offer glimpses at loves past, compared to loves present, and are given with a remorsful and personal air (for example, Valentine mentions "Did you hear about big brother/He's the next big thing," a possible reference to big-brother Charlie?). Even "Bed of Ashes," a flat-out, traditional heartbreaker, captured my immediate attention.

There is no doubt that Bruce Robison is the best singer/songwriter working today. His albums may not be best-sellers...but then, if you look at what DOES sell, and compare it to what DOESN'T, you will see that sometimes the best albums are those that the public doesn't readily eat up. This is one of them. If you want radio friendly, airy, all heads-in-the-clouds-balloony songs, go somewhere else. If you want honest, real music, music that speaks to the heart, the soul, and every other part of your body, then buy Bruce Robison's "Country Sunshine."

Low-key return to songwriterýs indie roots has subtle charm.......2001-09-24

Having been one of the first to sign to Sony's Lucky Dog imprint, Robison now becomes the first to voluntarily return to indie releases. While his brother (Charlie) and others (Jack Ingram, BR549) contemplate Lucky Dog's gentle nudge towards a more commercially viable presentation, Robison's taken his leave to concentrate on songwriting and to follow a musical muse who's unfettered by starmaking machinations. The success with which his songs have been recorded by the likes of Lee Ann Womack ("Lonely Too") and Tim McGraw ("Angry All the Time"), has afforded him the freedom and direction.

His latest collection of tunes continues the thoughtful, songwriterly work of his three previous LPs. The production, however, takes an even more decided turn to a homegrown, understated sound that gently underlines Robison's vocals. It's not as whispery as Bill Anderson, but it has the same quiet strength that causes a listener to lean in. Drummer Kenny Malone provides the same sort of easy groove he laid down for Don Gibson and others.

Standout titles include a new duet with Kelly Willis, "Friendless Marriage" (sure to be appearing on a Tim McGraw or Faith Hill album near you), and the tongue-not-completely-in-cheek tribute to Willie Nelson, "What Would Willie Do." "Bed of Ashes" (co-written with Sean Michaels) sets tight, traditional harmony singing against fiddle, steel, and Ian McLagan's Hammond organ. Co-writes with Allison Moore and Marty Siedel further complement Robison's solo works.

Like Robison's earlier albums, this one has a few standout performances, and a host of songs waiting to be magnified by others. The high quality of Robison's songwriting can outstrip his understated, highly-personal presentations. But with such potent songs, the songwriter's subtle singing charms are a good place to begin one's appreciation of his words.

Average customer rating:

Seeger: Two Movements for Chamber Orchestra/Musgrave: Chamber Concerto No. 2/Mekeel: Planh/Corridors of Dreams Manufacturer: Delos Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Ruth Crawford Seeger: Violin Sonata; Piano Pieces; Two Ricercari; Sandburg Songs The World of Ruth Crawford Seeger Ruth Crawford Seeger: Portrait Roger Sessions: Symphony No. 4; Symphony No. 5; Rhapsody ASIN: B0000006U4 Release Date: 1992-12-14

Tracks:

1. Two Movements For Chamber Orchestra
2. Chamber Concerto No.2
3. Planh
4. Corridors Of Dream

Music Album:

1. Cadillac Jack's #1 Son
2. Castles in the Sand//Hello in There Plus [Import]
3. Classic Country: The '80s
4. Clawhammer Banjo, Vol. 2
5. Comfort of Her Wings
6. Country Music Hall of Fame Series
7. Countryman (Alternate Clean Cover) (Edco) (Dig)
8. Daddy's Hands
9. Dave Dudley Hits
10. Dead Rekoning

Music Album