The Waymores: Greener Pastures (Chicken Ranch Records) – Album Review

Reviewed by Harry Kaplan

Yes indeed! We need way more Waymores. This Atlanta duo is a throwback to a time when country music was authentic and not confused with pop or hip hop. People have been debating whether country music was “real” since the genre was invented. That’s part of the fun of country – arguing over which performers and artists are the most “country”. There is no debate where The Waymores are concerned. They have more country in the frayed edges of their cowboy hats than most of Nashville.

Greener Pastures takes us back to that sweet spot between ’55 and ’75 when some of the best country and honkytonk music was ever made. Period, end of story. I am always intrigued when a current artist or group takes a jaunt back to different era and completely nails it. It is not an easy task to make an album that sounds old but is still modern. It takes an incredible amount of skill and a bionic ear. Greener Pastures walks that tightrope as expertly as the Flying Wallendas.

Nothing screams classic country like a boatload of twang and a heaping helping of pedal steel. If that’s your thing, then take a listen to Don’t Worry. There is twang and pedal steel leaking out of every pore of this song. Dave Pearlman, who played pedal steel for Merle Haggard, Hoyt Axton, Phil Everly, Chuck Berry, and many others is the man in charge of the steel guitar on this track. There are also some absolutely pristine honkytonk piano fills. This song is a beer soaked, smoke filled powerhouse. Think Loretta, Patsy, Conway, and Merle and you will get the gist of this perfect little ditty. The lead and backing vocals complete the circle. If you crave that twang as much as I do, listen to You Got Gold, Greener Pastures, and Hill Country Waltz.

No classic country album is complete without at least one drinking song. It’s a requirement. The Waymores are well aware of this mandate and are in full compliance as evidenced by the final track on the album entitled Tavern Time. I dare you to listen to this number without have at least a sip of the alcohol of your choice. I double dog dare you. This song has the making of a country classic. There is also steel guitar a-plenty and piano as well. And the words are as inviting as a cold swimming hole on a hot summer day:

“It’s tavern time again, where the beer flows like wine. Bartender set me up one more time.
Where a man can drown his sorrows, at least until tomorrow. At Virgil’s come on in. It’s tavern
time again.
I called in a favor, walked over to my neighbor. A good timin’ buddy, twin axel Joe.
My gal split last Sunday , been blasted since past Monday. So take where the lights are turned
down low.
It’s tavern time again, where the beer flows like wine. Bartender set me up one more time.
Where a gal can drown her sorrows, at least until tomorrow. At Virgil’s come on in. It’s tavern
time again.”

In a time when the country music industry seems to be flooded with cookie-cutter pop tunes and auto-tuned voices, finding authentic country music can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But fear not, because here come The Waymores to the rescue! The Waymores are a breath of fresh air. Their unique blend of traditional sounds and contemporary storytelling creates a magical musical experience that will transport you to a simpler time. With their harmonies and honest lyrics, they capture the essence of what country music is all about. The Waymores know how to keep your toes tapping and your emotions stirred. So, whether you’re a die-hard country music fan or just someone looking for a refreshing change in your playlist, give The Waymores a listen. You won’t be disappointed.