The guitar moan and studio science of Gurf Morlix inject plenty of
Texas into the sound of this well-travelled Manitoban. It also makes
Lucinda Williams comparisons unavoidable. Beneath the fight in her
voice, there is more sadness in Mayes’ songs than on 2006’s Sweet
Somethin’ Steady, the most engaging mess of Canadian country east
of Corb Lund this decade. The swagger resurfaces on “If the Lord Don’t
Love You,” at least as an agent of seduction. Morlix adds vocals on
“Mercy on Me,” “Tusk”-like rhythm and organ distinguishing it nicely.
Achin’ is slightly disappointing, if only because Mayes had set
the bar so high.
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This article appears in Jun 25 – Jul 1, 2009.