Gurf Morlix Reviewed

Gurf Morlix

Fishin' in the Muddy (Catamount) Since the breakup of his musical relationship with Lucinda Williams a number of years ago, guitarist Gurf Morlix has been mighty busy. He's produced award-winning albums for the likes of Slaid Cleaves, Ray Wylie Hubbard, and Robert Earl Keen; added his instrumental talents to the music of a host of wide ranging talents, including Buddy & Julie Miller, Austin's Imperial Golden Crown Harmonizers and Libbi Bosworth; and still had time to write and record his own songs. Fishin' in the Muddy is Morlix's second album, and it's another healthy helping of American roots rock. One thing that stands out this time is his vocals. Where his debut, Toad of Titicaca, was marred by gruff singing that didn't match the album's fine musicianship, here he's a lot more tuneful, and while he'll never be considered a crooner, a great deal of growth is evident. Likewise, while some may want to categorize Morlix as a singer-songwriter simply through his work with so many great ones over the years, Fishin' in the Muddy reveals itself as a confident rocker. Tunes like "Big Eye," "Your Picture," and "Let the Rhythm Rule" feature big hooks and bluesy guitar licks that are sure to sound great at any beer blowout. Morlix does have his sensitive moments, like the folky set opener "Torn in Two" and the sly pop rocker "How to Be," but overall Fishin' in the Muddy is a romper stomper.