Montgomery Gentry

With their third release, Montgomery Gentry, the only duo to seriously challenge Brooks & Dunn, again marry the sinewy muscle of Southern rock with blue-collar pride and passion, but dig deeper to showcase the music behind the machismo. Drafting such players as Allman Brothers/Rolling Stones alum Chuck Leavell and John Mellencamp/Joe Ely /Storyville vet David Grissom, the Kentucky pair turn the title song into a sweeping anthemic declaration of place and belonging, and then smoke their way through "Why Do I Feel Like Running," in which a restless man regrets his "gypsy bone." Part of their appeal is the ease with which these ultra-manly men reveal their vulnerability and pain, Eddie Montgomery letting it show in every word from his strong-as-oak baritone, and Troy Gentry showcasing it on the jilted lover's plea "Lie Before You Leave." That said, MG, who count on attitude to lift the more ...

2002-08-27 - Sony