Trip Rogers’ voice is a unique instrument. The pinched vibrato full of self-assurance channels Alice Cooper and Willie Nelson in the same breath. Rogers’ songs revel in pastoral and urban southern imagery, and he dips them alternately into the cool and hot wells of matured contemplation and populist discontent.

What does it sound like? Solo vocal, layered acoustic guitars, fiery blues electric guitar leads, drums by the great Donnie Marshall, electric bass and occasional flourishes of organ, piano, mandolin and saxophone.

Cons: The arrangements and the walking bass lines give several of the songs an unnecessarily outdated feel. The music roams competently through diverse moods and genres, but my ear wants to hear Rogers’ further explore his own voice to bring more varied emphasis and texture to the presentation of his impressive lyrics.

Pros: Rogers’ words are his great shining strength. The lyrics are engaging, tragic and often funny. Mainline's insights into the regional zeitgeist will resonate with listeners. Standout tracks include: Living in Color, Untitled (a startling unlisted track that closes the album) and New Barbarians- a hilarious populist fight song that would make a great punk rock anthem.

Artist’s website: http://www.triprogers.com