MICHAEL HURLEY - Armchair Boogie LP

If you are into roots music of any kind, you should recognize immediately Hurley's deep working knowledge and passion for all manner of Americana. Hurley understands how this music can be personalised, and that the best proponents of roots music are individualists to the core.

Hurley is no different. He grasps the innate surrealism and subtle rhythmic shifts of the blues, the sweet, emotive and haunting qualities of bluegrass and country music. These qualities are amalgamated into a staunchly individualistic album. While the material ranges from hilarious to haunted, from sparse to richly arranged, an easy going mood pervades throughout.

This is most definitely a grower, and a wonderful first taste of the magical world of Michael Hurley.