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Mare Wakefield, Ironwood, 2008 (Self-released, Indie)
Mare Wakefield's new full-length record entitled Ironwood is a roots-driven Muscle Shoals-influenced Americana joyride—only the passengers are sipping Starbucks lattes instead of whiskey. Wakefield's voice is sweet and sexy, and the funky twangin' guitars recall the best episodes of The Dukes of Hazzard, in all its innocent fun. Seriously, if you like that theme song, you'll dig this record. (This writer happens to love that theme song.) Ironwood stays consistent in its light-hearted rootsy, Americana vibe throughout most of the record. The standout misplaced track, however, is unfortunately the title song "Ironwood," which sounds like a bad broadway love song. Another poor song-choice for the record is the depressing Joan Baez-sounding "Wedding Day" which, although showcasing Wakefield's lovely voice, simply doesn't fit the overall rootsy Muscle Shoals vibe. But hey, 9 out of 11 ain't bad. In all, Mare Wakefield has delivered a very fine light-hearted roots record that is a standout amid the forest of rootsy Americana records. — Vincent Wynne, September 29, 2008
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