Genre: Album
Grade: B+
Notable People: The Jayhawks, Produced by: Gary Louris
Title: XOXO
Review: The umpteenth album from the venerable country rock outfit has no revelations- but very sold in their usual way of producing highly melodic tunes, with well-crafted lyrics, superior musicianship and soaring harmonies. This album marks a departure in that it seems much more like a true band album than any previously, with mastermind Louris taking a back seat at times to the other three members on both writing credits and lead vocals. I like this a lot-they are multi- talented group. Jayhawk albums are always a welcome addition, though I miss the days when the band was built around Louris and long gone co-founder Gay Larsen’s twin writing and Everly-esq harmonies- never quite been the same since he left…..but still durable, reliable and polished music. Keep ‘em coming.