One Step Stronger
Two of the authors of the title track from the Doobies’ One Step Closer album have reunited musically, and the result is a highly acclaimed new album. Carlene Carter, country music “royalty” (daughter of June Carter and Country Music Hall Of Fame artist Carl Smith, stepdaughter of Johnny Cash) and Grammy nominated artist in her own right has just released the album Stronger, her first album in thirteen years - and it was produced by the Doobie Brothers’ own John McFee. Also appearing on the album is Doobies keyboardist Guy Allison, while John produced, engineered, and played most of the instruments on the record himself.
The songs on the album were largely written in the aftermath of a series of emotionally challenging events in Carlene’s life, which may be one of the reasons for the depth of response the product is generating from both general public and critics alike. Within an eight month period a few years back, Carlene lost her mother June, her long time companion Howie Epstein (bass player of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers), her stepfather Johnny Cash, and her sister Rosie.
A good example of the reaction the record is getting would be these comments from two songwriters whose work surely ranks among the best writing of the past half century:
- “I couldn’t let a day go by without writing a note about C.C.’s record. It is astounding.” Elvis Costello
- “A staggering achievement by one of the great voices and fearless hearts of country rock.” Bernie Taupin
A sampling of critics’ comments:
- “…has the kick and luster of Carter’s best songs from the ’80s and ’90s. It’s an ironically joyous, even witty CD, filled with the kind of rollicking roots rock that extends the great American legacy that lives in Carter’s genes.” New York Daily News
- “Carter sounds as strong as she’s ever been—stronger… A magnificent, and welcome, return” Harp Magazine
- “While definitely among Carter’s best work, it may well stand as one of the best albums of this year.” Country Standard Time
- “The album title says it best. Carlene Carter’s musicianship is stronger than ever.” Pop Matters
- This is what you want playing when the open road lies ahead and the top is down. Betcha this is the comeback story of the year.” Midwest Record
- “…there’s not a dud note in earshot here, whether she’s essaying high-stepping, Burrito-esque hillbilly rockers or more traditional-toned pieces in mandolin, dobro and autoharp. Comeback of the year, no contest.” The Independent (London, England)
You can give the entire album a listen for free by clicking here for Carlene’s record company’s (Yep Roc Records) web site where they have a streaming audio player of the album - check it out. You can purchase the album at Amazon
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Comments
Comment from Jimbo
Time: April 27, 2008, 6:41 pm
Back when John and Keith were in Southern Pacific, I remember they were on a show on the Nashville Network, and Carlene joined them for one song. One of the members of the band introduced her as “John’s old girlfriend.” She sang “Time’s Up” with them in that show. I’ve always wished the Doobies would sing “Any Way the Wind Blows” from those days. Southern Pacific had some great country-rock songs. Does anyone remember the a capella version of “I Go to Pieces”?
Comment from Leon Steinberg
Time: April 27, 2008, 11:36 pm
John McFee is one of my favorite guitarists. His unique country/rock style reminds me of guitarist Octavio Vinck from The Paul Collins Beat or Sonny Landreth from John Hiatt’s Goners. Back in the 80s, I was a big fan of Southern Pacific, John Hiatt and The Paul Collins Beat, before I started leaning more toward solid country and blues. The songwriting is very important, McFee needs to release some solo albums soon. That brings me to the new Carlene Carter CD, it is some of McFee’s best work and all of the songs are excellent.
Comment from dooie love
Time: April 28, 2008, 3:00 pm
Awsome can’t wait to hear some great music from great artits of our time!
Comment from Dave
Time: May 1, 2008, 7:34 am
I saw John and Keith perform in Southern Pacific in Richmond, Virginia and i swear John was at his best with this form of country music they were doing. Of course, he was holding down all the guitar work on his own. I purchased all the Southern Pacific music and two of their albumns we excellent. It would be really nice to hear the Brothers do some of that music .
Comment from Steve Langdon
Time: May 1, 2008, 10:05 am
Congrats is right John! we go back a long way……..your talent still amazes me!
Comment from Andrew
Time: May 2, 2008, 10:00 am
In talking to John during the Doobies 2007 tour in Niagara Falls i was impressed with Johns lengthy back gorund in the music industry. Not only playing with some topself acts but his own talent that he brings to the table.
Great work John i look forward to purchaing this CD and i am sure i will hear your artistic ability on this CD.
Keep on rockin
Andrew
Comment from Greg Parlane
Time: May 20, 2008, 9:38 pm
Not sure if this a the correct forum but I am wanting to know the location of the photo shoot for the inner sleeve of Livin’ on the Faultline. I believe it was one of the Missions on El Camino Real.
Your assistance is appreciated.
Comment from john rollason
Time: July 18, 2008, 4:21 pm
john,
i listen to this album almost not believing it is you on nearly every instrument. not to mention producing, arranging and probably writing the music on these tracks. i now have a greater appreciation of your musicianship. kudos to shane for his stinging lead on ‘i’m so cool’ and to guy on ‘judgement day’.
a wonderful piece of music.
john
Comment from ultimate fan
Time: April 20, 2008, 8:27 pm
Kudos to John McFee. Tremendous music from a great voice in country music with a great producer in McFee. Congrats.