As singer/songwriters go, it might be argued that
Jimmie Dale Gilmore
is more of a singer than a songwriter, but, on the basis of his second full-length album,
Goodnight Lane
, the opposite might be said of
Gilmore
's son
Colin Gilmore
. Not that
can't sing; in fact, his voice is reminiscent of
's in terms of its phrasing and the rounded West Texas accent, though it is higher and thinner. It's just that
's songs display considerable craftsmanship, the lyrics taking a poetic turn that gives the subject matter -- reflections on the musician's life, romantic encounters, and the world in general -- greater depth. As a composer,
reflects more the influence of his father's partner in
the Flatlanders
,
Joe Ely
, which is to say that the leans more toward straight rock and jangle pop than he does toward country. In fact, his chief influences may be another Lubbock native,
Buddy Holly
, and
Holly
's contemporary and partner in death
Ritchie Valens
. It's no surprise that
have already called on the younger
for material, cutting his song
"The Way We Are"
on their
Hills and Valleys
album. Before long, country artists may be seeking out his albums for cover material, and there are several selections on
they might find useful, in particular
"Laughing Hard or Crying."
, meanwhile, might want to give a listen to
"Llano,"
which sounds perfect for him to sing. ~ William Ruhlmann