The Longest Meow

11 of the 12 tracks for The Longest Meow were recorded in 11 hours by 11 people as part of an all-day recording studio marathon. Minimal overdubs were applied keeping true to the live to tape excitement. And yet Bare Jr. maintains his third solo album was more carefully orchestrated, since rehearsals were held and arrangements worked out previous to the sessions. Well, there is no denying the firepower. The son of a legendary Nashville country singer, Bobby Bare Jr. has been carving out his own particular niche for the past decade with songs that are loose and loud, tough and tender, country-influenced but clearly rock. He’s joined by members of My Morning Jacket, Clem Snide and Lambchop, who intuitively understand the demands and never overshine the songs. A cover of the Pixies’ “Where Is My Mind” is turned into a soft acoustic lament. “Stop Crying” is as affecting as a Paul Westerberg ballad. “Back to Blue” led by a sparse arrangement of pedal steel and delicate harmonies points up Bare’s considerable country vocal chops. Not surprising, considering the family stock.