"Time To Go", Woody Russell's 2002 release, continues to explore his trademark brand of "thinking man's Americana." Drawing from his diverse musical background, the songs on this recording move smoothly from robust Delta slide guitar riffs and gritty [+]"Time To Go", Woody Russell's 2002 release, continues to explore his trademark brand of "thinking man's Americana." Drawing from his diverse musical background, the songs on this recording move smoothly from robust Delta slide guitar riffs and gritty vocals to somber storytelling ballads. On several tracks his one-of-a-kind "Resolectric" guitar conjures up a wicked "banjo-esque" sound that is rootsy and absolutely unique to this release. The entire performance from the band is stunning and well produced; with lush vocal harmonies and haunting instrumental textures throughout. Continued respect for earlier American roots music, such as the blues and narrative folk forms, is always present in Russell's songs. Some of his more obvious contemporary songwriter influences; Richard Thompson, Bruce Cockburn, Mark Knopfler and even Tom Waits are also reflected in some slight way.
"I welcome their influence on my songwriting," says Woody. "I can't go wrong by paying close attention to the work of artists that I consider to be absolutely masterful songwriters and musicians. My intention is to walk the tightrope of being a precision tune-smith who knows when to stop at a deliberately rough hewn gem," states Woody.
With "Time To Go" Russell's ability to capture a scene, a character and a melody that sticks has become even more intriguing, more "cinematic". It's a natural progression from the subtle, folk-infused '96 debut, "...as simple as that". Yet, much like his debut he employs no recycled, unimaginative hooks here. The stories he brings to life are equal parts melancholy and humor. The characters are both the forgotten and the victorious. The lovers and the heartbroken. He writes of a social consciousness. He explores the philosophical. Occasionally, he admits to being a helpless romantic and he always chooses to up the ante, taking a chance on creating some well penned magic.
Standout tracks begin with the opening song, 'Not Lay Down And Die'. Funky, bone-slide guitar picking sets the CD in motion with a hook that resonates with the spirit of a Delta blues - I'm still here and I'm gonna testify / That I've been run ragged / But I will not lay down and die. 'Stargirl' follows with its slick, bluesy groove and slightly estranged character portrayal, per
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