Have Gun, Will Travel

These are songs that come from some place honest. The poetry is in the details. The emotions make each tale universal like the ancient themes that course through mythology ... and classic hillbilly records.
"Have Gun, Will Travel" is the CD I just can't ignore lately. It's the latest work by Bradenton's own Matt Burke, who has made a dramatic departure from the loud guitars of his nationally-signed band The Chase Theory.
The seven-track EP "Have Gun, Will Travel" features an acoustic guitar augmented by a crying harmonica, a banjo that sounds like it just dropped in from the hills and other spot-on colorings. The melodies are soothing like strong medicine. Burke's vocals are subtle yet somehow manage to grab you by the throat at the same time.
Several months ago, Burke played a rough mix of the disc for me one very late night in the parking lot of the Old Main Pub in downtown Bradenton. And I was blown away. But worried it was just the booze enhancing the music. The finished product, which I have already done my best to play out, is even more impressive.
Yeah, "Have Gun, Will Travel" is highly recommended for fans of Hank Williams and Gram Parsons; Neil Young and Jay Fararr.
Fans of The Chase Theory should embrace this project with both arms because it's Burke at his best ... Unadorned by screaming guitars, his songwriting skills bubble to the surface, he's front and center and well-equipped at holding the listener's attention.
Click here to listen to the outstanding tracks "Silver & the Age of Opulence" and "Indian Valley Line."
And then share your thoughts on Burke's new project.
Is it as good as I say?