The best and worst you can say about James McMurtry's sixth album is that it's not a drastic departure from his previous five. His storytelling is still sharply observed, his straightforward rock still compelling, but what starts out as a certain sonic consistency becomes oppressive over the course of ten tracks. Granted, there are a few new developments: the production is a degree more lush and atmospheric than McMurtry's previous albums, especially on the achingly gorgeous "Dry River," which ...   [ read more ]

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James McMurtry's fourth album of new material concerns itself with change. Showing a maturity that doesn't show itself much in the roots rock genre, It Had to Happen winds its way through many stories set to music. "Sixty Acres" deals with inheritance, while "No More Buffalo," a standout cut, dwells on both natural and personal destruction. Tastefully done, McMurtry and his fellow travelers offer fine music done maturely. ~ James Chrispell, All Music Guide

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Somewhere between "Desolation Row," "The Heart of Saturday Night," and {-The Last Picture Show}, there are places and events that James McMurtry writes about. Vocally, he is seldom surprising, but always dependable. Sliding effortlessly from first- to third-person narrative, McMurtry presents great material, including maybe the definitive gettin' sober song, "Every Little Bit Counts." Other highlights include "Fast as I Can," "Tired of Walking," and the surprise inclusion of {$Townes V...   [ read more ]

CD $17.08