Best Tracks and Side Tracks (Yep Roc, 2008)
Jason Ringenberg
Reviewed by Brian Steinberg
Ringenberg, a lanky unassuming fellow until you get him behind a mike, was best known for his days with the Scorchers, a rambunctious band that turned country on its ear by adding punk and metal elements to its mix. Those songs assaulted the ear (pleasantly), but there was room for some brainwork, too. It's the lyrics, not the loud guitar buzz, that take prominence in a new version of "Shop It Around." Listeners may also enjoy the "it's-early-days" vibe of "Punk Rock Skunk"; a version of the Scorchers's "Bible with a Gun" that was co-written by Steve Earle as well as some detailed story-songs from later on in Ringenberg's career, including "Eddie Rode the Orphan Train" and "Tuskegee Pride."
The disc also touches on his Farmer Jason days (songs for kids), with selections like "Rainbow Stew." Hey, it doesn't mix in seamlessly with the rest of the disc, but it's miles ahead of Barney...
CDs by Jason Ringenberg





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