Reviewed by Harry Kaplan

Old Heavy Hands is a Greensboro, North Carolina trio made up of Nate Hall, David Self, and Larry Wayne. These gentlemen are multi-talented. Not only did they make a fine album with skill and professional musicianship, but they are all tattoo artists in a studio owned by Hall. Where should I start? This is a great album with truly stellar country music songs, the way country ought to be. Great thought provoking lyrics, great instrumentation and vocals, and plenty o’ twang. Every one of these numbers should be on the radio and played loud and proud.

This record starts out strong with Gates Swing Wide about making some bad choices and ending up in prison. A great country ballad that is about redemption and second chances. Lyrically, this song is classic worthy. I’ll Come Home, the last track on the album is another beauty that starts off with a really beautiful guitar riff that sets the tone perfectly for this song. This song speaks literally and symbolically about going home. Both about going to your hometown but also about finding a place inside each one of us that is comfortable and feels like we belong. Well, that is my interpretation. I could be way off base, but that is what this song says to me. Lake Effect Snow (Track 4) is a gorgeous number. Again, about the cold weather with underlying themes of trying to find a sense of belonging and purpose.

This album is one of the best I have heard in 2016. Here is how to listen on Soundcloud and here is how to buy. And buy you must! That is a direct order!