Way back in the mids of April, I saw a previously unknown band set the stage for Natural Child at a VFW Post in town, of all places. "These guys are great!" I said. "I sure hope there’s some music online so I can share it with folks!" There wasn’t. So imagine my excitement finding out today that at some point in the interim, Teddy & the Rough Riders got some demos together and oh boy, do they ever hold up in comparison to the live experience. There are only six tracks on display, but they all showcase what this band does best—sophisticated country tunes held tight by an accomplished band and lifted into orbit by some truly incredible pedal steel (the ever-magnificent Luke Schneider), let loose to wander by way of the frayed, croaking vocals on top of it all. It only took one live show to convince me that these guys are headed in exactly the right direction. Give ’em that same chance next time you can, yeah? –Austin Phy
