(Ruth St.)

www.pattersonhood.com

Given the fact that most Drive-By Truckers albums have nearly 20 songs and clock in well over an hour, it seems amazing that bandleader Patterson Hood could have extra music lying around. But apparently he does.

Murdering Oscar is a collection of tunes he wrote over the last 15 years, but never had the chance to release. Musically, it covers much of the same ground as the Truckers' last few albums: fiery Southern rock, Crazy Horse-style stompers and tender country-influenced ballads. The main difference is in the lyrics. Hood made his name singing detailed stories about people in the South, from war veterans and rock stars to small-town sheriffs and regular folk trying to find their way. Here, he turns the spotlight on himself and his family to equally strong effect.

If not quite up to the level of his best work, Murdering Oscar is another quality album from a guy who has become one of the best and most consistent songwriters of his generation.

Standout Tracks: "Murdering Oscar" "Heavy and Hanging" HAL BIENSTOCK