Jay Farrar has long been a leading player in the Alt Country genre, initially with his band Uncle Tupelo. He has also released 3 wonderful solo albums. But it is as the leading protagonist in Son Volt, with three great albums, that some of his very best work has emerged. This new Son Volt album is due for release in July 2009 and for those lovers of alt country that follows in the tradition of The Byrds and The Flying Burrito Brothers, this album is a must-have.

‘Dynamite’ opens the album in graceful and traditional style. With the emphasis very much on clearly communicated (and excellent) lyrics, a subtle instrumental arrangement and tangible melody, this song is an album highlight. ‘Down To The Wire’ lets in some dramatic, diving guitar riffs, an even stronger melody and a vocal that travels the range to deliver the song’s important message. It’s the most epic track here and vies with one other song here to secure my vote for the pick of the album. ‘Roll On’ does just that, pulled along by another lovely melody and heartfelt vocal performance by Farrar. Wandering piano notes introduce another superb highlight with ‘Cocaine And Ashes.’ The subtle female backing vocal, moving lyrics and a mournful instrumental vibe (to match this song’s sad ambience) make this my other favourite on this superb album.

Other highlights include the narrative of working life and redundancy, ‘When The Wheels Don’t Move’, which reminds me of the Rolling Stones on EXILE ON MAIN STREET with its deathly blues rock vibe that echoes the song’s sentiments perfectly. ‘Exiles’ offers up another superb melody and instrument-led ambience (with piano returning for several beautiful passages) to produce another standout track. The piano returns again in a leading role on the narrative ‘Sultana.’ This is alt country story-telling at its best with that piano providing a devestating rhythmic heart. Farrar’s voice and lyrics drive this masterpiece home in thoughtful and moving style. The driving, upbeat ‘Jukebox Of Steel’ with its briliant flashes of bass and lead guitars concludes the album in epic style.

AMERICAN CENTRAL DUST will undoubtadly go down as a classic alt country recording. It’s an elegant and graceful reflection of American country life and challenges, with an uncanny ability to paint vivid pictures. It’s an essential album for followers of the genre and this accomplished arist.

4.5/5