Global Village Garage

Despite claims to be an "observant world traveller" in Global Village Garage, Texan novelist-turned-songwriter Richard Dobson has recorded an album of fine songs in Germany which are so Americocentric they mock the very title of the album.

That apart, this is a country-rock album per excellence, from a man with a well lived-in voice that's sounds like it's been trashed more than a few times. He can rock with the best of them and cry into his beer (and yours) when it's called for too.

'Back To The Island' lopes along with an infectious Meters-lite Caribbean rhythm that could wear out your carpet. 'Sweet Spot', boasting some delicate harmonies, deserves to be covered again and again, as does the equally enticing 'If I String Along With You', while the jaunty 'A Place Called Idaho', a warm tribute to local country singer Pinto Bennett, makes you wanna go there, now.

'Ballad Of Chipita And Karla Faye' graphically confronts the Texan zeal for capital punishment. 'Lonesome Riding Shotgun' is an (almost) Garrison Keillor-style monologue with atmospheric guitar accompaniment.

The production by Thomm Jutz is impeccable, as is the playing and singing of a coterie of Americans and Europeans (including Ireland's Tony McLoughlin), so let's hope this album brings Dobson the worldwide audience his talent and commitment deserve.