Red Sky July - The Truth and the Lie

by Adrian Huggins

published: 15 / 5 / 2016

Label: Shadowbird Records
Format: CD

intro

Fantastic country pop on third album from super group Red Sky July, which consists of members of Texas, Alisha's Attic and the Alice Band

I was completely intrigued by the line-up of Red Sky July. They consist of Texas guitarist Ally McErlaine, Shelly Poole previously of Alisha’s Attic and Charity Hair of the Alice Band. Together they produce what they coin as alt. country. The more and more I listen to this album the more I see why they came up with that label. The album is steeped in that country sound and a casual listen would have you assuming that they were straight out of Tennessee. As the songs grow and become more familiar that British pop sound, however, shines through. This is probably most evident on the lead single and title song, 'The Truth and the Lie'. It really is a perfect pop song and steps out of the country sound slightly more than a lot of the album. 'Taking Back Myself' is a typical country anti-ballad and is a fantastic tale of someone taking back their own life. In true fashion they, however, manage to list the household objects and pets that they have left behind which is always good to know. 'Walking Country Song' is also notable for its clever referencing of classic country songs. It is obvious that the band are both fans and purveyors of the country genre, but also are not averse to wearing the references and influences on their sleeves. Throughout the album there are little sprinkles of a very British sense of humour woven in. 'Dodge' is another stand-out track and is great country-pop song, I had to go and check if it was cover as it sounded like it should be a classic country track already. The vocals harmonies from Poole and Hair are divine and angel-like in some places, but in others you almost take it for granted as everything mixes and sits together so perfectly and are all held in place by Ally McErlaine’s guitar hooks that breathe life into the well-trodden country style. Red Sky July have thoroughly surpassed my expectations and sense of intrigue, and I found this album a very enjoyable album from start to finish. Bring on the cowboy boots!

Track Listing:-

1 Jet Trails
2 The Truth and the Lie
3 Taking Myself Back
4 In Black
5 Earthwards
6 Dodge
7 Long Time Dead
8 Walking Country Song
9 Strathconon (feat. Beth Nielsen Chapman)
10 Sway

Band Links:-

http://redskyjuly.com/
https://www.facebook.com/RedSkyJuly
https://twitter.com/RedSkyJuly
https://www.youtube.com/user/RedSkyJuly
https://plus.google.com/117805386536627444163
https://www.instagram.com/redskyjuly/