James Intveld
Somewhere Down the Road

Great songs and fat guitars grace this fine album by California roots rocker James Intveld. There is an openness and bourbon-like smoothness to Intveld's sound that contrasts with the honky-tonk toughness of indie-hick hardasses like the Derailers and the Domino Kings. But having more breathing space for the instruments is cool because Intveld is not only a superbly talented singer and songwriter but also a skilled hand on acoustic, electric baritone, mandolin, bass, and keyboards. Second guitarist Michael Turner tackles the solo spots with vibey lead work and lush, tremolo-laced fills, while Marty Rifkin ratchets up the rural factor with his sweet pedalsteel and dobro forays. Intveld's lyrical prowess is a cut above the crowd, and it's just another reason why you may find yourself spinning this record again and again. Molenaart.

—ART THOMPSON