David Rodriguez

Proud Heart (Recovery)

Originally from Houston, David Rodriguez moved to the Netherlands a decade ago. It was around that time he released Proud Heart, but only to his European audience. Before the singer-songwriter left Texas, Rodriguez – Carrie’s father – was a favorite at Austin’s then-folk mecca, Sixth Street’s Chicago House, and listening to these songs it’s clear why. He possesses a finely honed eye for lyrical detail while remaining faithful to his Texas musical roots. Some have compared Rodriguez’s work to Townes Van Zandt and even Dylan, but Proud Heart mostly evokes the songs of Butch Hancock, with hardscrabble melodies, fleeting visions, and subtle accompaniment. At 14 tracks, the album is a little lengthy; minus a track or two, its impact would be heavier. Still, songs like the aptly spare “Simple Things,” the melancholy “The Other Texas,” and slowly shuffling “Out of Range” are among Rodriguez’s best. The entire album accurately captures the tone of a man on the verge of life changes: optimistic, expectant, and nostalgic, yet suffered with a tinge of sorrow for what he’s leaving behind.

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This article appears in December 15 • 2006.

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