Hailing from the genetics of alt-country artist, Steve Earle, whilst also growing up in South Nashville, Justin Townes Earle is no stranger to the country music scene and its inhabitants. His seventh studio album, Kids In The Street, is a suave take on traditionalist country, drawing inspiration from several genres including soul, funk, blues and jazz in conjunction with the audible influence of active seventies singer/songwriter George Jackson. Earle has a distinct voice that sounds like a matured Vance Joy with a sliver of southern lilt that's most clearly heard in the drawn back There Go A Fool and title track Kids in the Street; a melancholy reflection on the loss of childhood and falling prey to the grips of change. The egotistical strut in the intro of 15 - 25 is somewhat of a mix between Elvis Presley and gospel music, that delves into a backing that replicates remnants of Bob Seger's Old Time Rock and Roll (written by George Jackson and featured in the hit film Risky Business (1983)). What's Goin Wrong has a clean-cut bluegrass vibe and a beat that mimics the ebb and flow of Trouble is, all of which ultimately draw attention away from the album's weakest song, Same Old Stagolee. It's a traditional folk tale that fails to flow coherently with an odd offbeat rhythm in the melody, but it still has narrative lyrics worth listening to. Kids In The Street isn't just an album for those who enjoy the roots of country music, so don't disbar it for the genre it falls under. If you're a fan of late twentieth century rock, or love the smooth styling of jazz and blues, Earle's latest works are his best yet and definitely do not disappoint.
Kids In The Street: Justin Townes Earle
Release date: 26 May 2017
Label: New West Records, LLC