Dancing on the Gallows (Self-released, 2010)

The second self-released effort from the Los Angeles based Rose's Pawn Shop displays an even mix of bluegrass, rock and country influences. The opening title track begins with bluegrass instrumentation, but quickly transitions into a hard-edged country rocker and sets the pace for the versatility evident throughout.

There's a rockabilly feel on several tracks including Ball Of Flames, which has a bit of a punk edge to it, and The Bed In Which You Lie, featuring a rocking solo from guitarist John Kraus. His guitar licks also standout on Danger Behind The Wheel and Pine Box.

The most bluegrass sounding tunes are Straw Man and The Well, but even these have a hard edge featuring drums. The ballad One Last Glass Of Whiskey is the strongest traditional country song.

Lead vocalist Paul Givant's voice is most effective on Patiently and Strangers, reminiscent of some of the Avett Brothers' work. Similarly, the harmonies on some tracks recall the Avetts, including The Garden and Debt Collector.

In addition to Givant (lead vocals, acoustic guitar) and Kraus (electric guitar, banjo, vocals) the other band mates are Tim Weed (fiddle, mandolin, vocals), Stephen Andrews (upright bass) and Ulf Geist (drums, vocals).

Though their eclecticism may make categorization difficult, Rose's Pawn Shop should appeal to Americana and adult alternative audiences.