James Hyland & the Joint Chiefs

Celestial Navigation

If there’s a betting pool for next big singer-songwriters in Austin, James Hyland’s name floats at the top. Hyland initially showcased his talents as founder of the South Austin Jug Band, but Celestial Navigation clearly sets his course for the stars with wonderfully crafted Americana such as “Lancelot & the Lady of Shallot.” Former bandmate Warren Hood co-wrote “More Than I Let On,” and Jon Beckham contributes “Snowy River,” but Hyland is well in command of an evocative writing style (“Girls From Lake Pontchartrain,” “21 Days, 21 Towns”).

***.5

This article appears in September 17 • 2010.

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