2009 continues to demonstrate the consistency and maturity of new generation 'ought year bands with the latest disc from Alabama's DEXATEENS. While previous efforts scored abundant praise for ragged, NEIL YOUNG-esque riff clunge and quirky songwriting smarts, "Singlewide" quivers with beds of acoustic guitars acting as springboards for dramatic, jangly performances and an air of tragedy.

Fans of STONES records from the early 70s should revel in tracks like "Same As It Used To Be" and "Grandaddy's Mouth", both of which resonate with the echoes of "Sticky Fingers" in terms of guitar tones. Eliot McPherson cements his development as a stirring vocalist, providing breathy melancholy over the hook-heavy piano / acoustic lines of the title track, and the melody of "Hang On" that almost suggests Brian Wilson. Engaging little wisps of banjo and piano pop up here and there, and occasionally commanding guitar workouts grab center stage like the slide performance in "Charlemagne" or the radical slash-and-burn solos of the magnificent "Ballad of Souls Departed". It's a very complete record, representing a welcome listen not just for fans of UNCLE TUPELO or early MEAT PUPPETS, but fans of quality songwriting and great guitar playing in general. Try it, you'll like it.

- Marchman

OFFICIAL SITE: www.dexateens.net

RELATED ITEMS: THE DEXATEENS - "Hardwire Healing", 2007