Nancy McCallion, former member of The Mollys, has now gone solo with her superb self-titled debut CD.  A blend of traditional country with Tex-Mex and Celtic flavourings, McCallion has surrounded herself with some great session players, including Austin fiddler, Darcie Deaville, guitarist Danny Krieger, drummer Ralph Gilmore (who co-produced the album with Nancy), bassist Steve Grams and sister Lisa McCallion, who adds back-up vocals. The band really swings on the uptempo "The Leaving Kind", then showcases great sensitivity on bluegrass-Celtic ballad "Reckless Child". The vocal duet between Nancy and Lisa on "Elvis Again" is an infectious gem. For those into Texas music, this is a fine example of how country music, in all its varied styles, is still very much fresh and alive in the Lone Star state.
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Nancy's self-titled solo debut features a team of talented musicians adding traditional country and rock instrumentation to her thirteen track CD. McCallion's music blends country, folk and roots rock with a dash of Tex-Mex and Irish heritage. Nancy writes sharp songs which are often about women seeking balance in relationships and work. Nancy is a versatile vocalist and she uses a diversity of tempos and musical textures to convey her astute observations. I particularly liked the tracks found in the middle of the CD. 'Money's Moving Up' is an up-tempo country tale about a marriage drifting apart as the husband returns to his rich roots. The animated jam in the middle features a fiddle and bold guitar work. 'Reckless Child' has a more serious tone with a banjo and harmonizing vocals. The innovative instrumentation and storytelling melded a Native American style with an Irish flair. Nancy's vocals are rich as she sings about a child at war in a foreign land and a mom fallen sick. 'Ain't Makin' Love' has a snappy rhythm, strong vocals and layered guitars. Nancy McCallion and her band have cooked up an assorted, flavorful mix of music!
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