Tiger Tom Dixon's Blues

Having earned his mark after years on music row, singer Rod Picott makes the absolute most of this album in its sincerity, honesty, and roots rock/troubadour fashions. With influences ranging from Tom Waits to John Hiatt, the musician is intent on producing the epilogue to Bruce Springsteen and his Tunnel of Love album and he is frighteningly close to the mark. The title track has the same galloping action of Springsteen's "Spare Parts" but with its own distinct narrative, while "Broke Down" is a mix of roots and pop. While some albums tend to go downhill after the initial tracks, Picott seems to get stronger with each number, particularly the acoustic, rough-around-the-edges lullaby of "Haunted Man." "All About You" is another gem of a song that showcases the potential ahead. A few songs are co-written with other notable Americana artists, including Slaid Cleaves and Fred Eaglesmith. The only slight miscue is "Not That Strong," where Picott does a passable homage to Chris Isaak and his subdued crooning. But it's not enough to cloud the stellar songwriting and craftsmanship each song is granted. Closing out with "You Don't Know," a slow yet building acoustic pop song, the album is short and ridiculously good. An album to be listened to in its entirety and repeatedly.