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ROBYN LUDWICK
Too Much Desire
(Freedom)

(NO DEPRESSION.NET) -- Chock full of spit and soul, Robyn Ludwick's sophomore album showcases classic Texas songwriting and her distinctive, lived-in vocals. Ludwick wrote all but one song here ("Lullaby", a brief instrumental penned by David Tasgal and performed by violinist Eleanor Whitmore). Like her brothers, Charlie and Bruce Robison, she's a master storyteller who nails the details. "I got lips that bleed, hunger, and beguile/Lookin' for the devil 'cause he drives me wild," Ludwick sings on the bluesy title track, as it builds and burns. "Did you lose all your marbles on that black bull in Pecos/Yeah tonight I miss you so bad," she offers on "Monte Carlo", a terrific, rough-and-tumble ditty that just might make a frat boy smile and step back at the same time. The album benefits from the superb backing of Ludwick's regular band, led by guitarist Mike Hardwick, plus guests including keyboardist Michael Ramos and fiddler Warren Hood.

-- ANDY TURNER
Copyright c. 2008 No Depression Inc. and/or Andy Turner.