Cortney Tidwell comes from Nashville, Tennessee - home of the Grand Old Opry and all things country and western, and I have to say that my prejudice about Country nearly steered me away from this album, despite some rave reviews. However, there was mention of Kurt Wagner (Lambchop) being on one of the tracks, as I’m really enjoying the Lambchop album - I thought I’d give this a try, I wasn’t disappointed.

From the opening track, its full of delicately put together tunes, sometimes reminiscent of Bjork (with the vocal styling) - but less abstract and more about the songwriting structure. Eyes at the Billions kicks off with soft acoustic guitars and gentle vocals, but then builds up to an almost Sigur Ros style wall of sound. Later on, ‘La-La’ chugs along with a sub electronica drumline and balearic style guitar around a nice vocal line and chorus. The Kurt Wagner duet - Society appears later in the album -with a lounge jazz feel, and beautifully crafted vocals from both of the players. Its a highlight of the album and a perfect example of the eclectic Americana which penetrates this album.

Don’t let the stars get you down is a superb album - easy listening without being cheesy, and country without the western. Its an 8/10 for me - check it out yourself .

 Cortney Tidwell on Amazon UK