Chris Brecht

The Great Ride (Dead Leaf)

Scratching out from under the influence of Dylan seems a veritable rite of passage for young songwriters, and Chris Brecht’s local debut rewinds thoroughly through the Basement Tapes. His elongated nasal drawl, the easy rhythm of B-3 organ, and restless lyrics cutting sardonic all build upon firmly set foundations; “Readin’ My Mind” even lifts its lilt straight from “You Ain’t Goin’ Nowhere.” It’s testament to the Austin songwriter’s talent that The Great Ride is a trip worth retracing. “Night Highway 99” drives a rambler’s harmonica into the steel of Lomita’s Ray Jackson on “Someone Is Gonna Lose,” Eleanor Whitmore contributing fiddle and Emmylou-styled harmonies. “A Song About Lightbulbs” burns mournfully, while “Better Grab My Coat” strips acoustic with a hint of Townes Van Zandt. “Absinthe” and “Belle Streets Midnight” drift though bluesy scenes drawing fatalistic import through Brecht’s incisive vision, proving a promising, if indebted, first offering.

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This article appears in May 30 • 2008.

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Doug Freeman has been writing for the Austin Chronicle since 2007, covering the arts and music scene in the city. He is originally from Virginia and earned his Masters Degree from the University of Texas. He is also co-editor of The Austin Chronicle Music Anthology, published by UT Press.