Well-Intentioned Earnestness

Written By Jeff Scharlau

"Well, I like CDs and electronics/And the Bulls by three over the SuperSonics," Carpetbaggers leader John Magnuson sings on the John Denver-parodying "Suburban Boy." Whereas the well-intentioned earnestness of some country traditionalists prevents them from adding anything new to that tradition, this Minneapolis trio mixes an old-time sound with a droll, self-aware outlook that's decidedly contemporary. Sharing vocals and songwriting credits, acoustic guitarist Magnuson, upright bass player Rich Copley and electric guitarist Mike Crabtree range across Buck Owens-inspired shuffles, tearful honky-tonk, high lonesome hill music and well-chosen cover material.

  • Kevin McKeough , Chicago Tribune, June 13, 1996

Jeff Scharlau
Next

Humorous Wordplay