A Honky Tonk Reprise (Rounder)

In these renaissance days of country and alternative country, in a time when Austin thrives with Watsons, Walsers, Hancocks, and Hickoids, Rosie Flores' '87 debut was never more relevant. Pegged a "New Traditionalist" along with the Yoakams, Lovetts, and Langs, young Flores sounded like Lucinda Williams with rockabilly fire, and with six bonus tracks augmenting this reissue, A Honky Tonk Reprise never sounded more sweet. -- Raoul Hernandez

(Verge)

This native South Carolinian has opened for such luminaries as Hootie and the Blowfish, Indigo Girls, and Ellen James Society, making her no stranger to the limelight. With pipes like Melissa Etheridge, a production style a la Sam Phillips/T-Bone Burnett, and wistful, often ethereal songs, she deserves to be there. This CD is strong and memorable. The billing order will be reversed.
-- Joe Mitchell

Final Request (BareFoot)

Foot's six-song Final Request is harmless enough, but mine would put an end to more Deep Blue Wannabes like this. -- Andy Langer

Tori Amos on a four-track. -- Joe Mitchell

"Bonus Track" reviews all local and Texas-based releases commercially available: Send to "Bonus Tracks," The Austin Chronicle, PO Box 49066, Austin, TX 78765