Hailing from New Mexico, Michael Hearne plays Americana music with such a gracious demeanor, some might overlook the depth of his songs simply because of their mellow, mostly acoustic presentation. To do so would be a shame, however, as Hearne is one of the best singer/songwriters (not to mention guitar players) currently working in the country/folk genre. Just ask legendary Texas tunesmiths Gary P. Nunn and Jerry Jeff Walker who have both covered Hearne's material.
The High Road to Taos, Hearne's most recent effort offers more of his keen introspection and unflinching honesty, as songs such as "Texas New Mexico Line" and "Trip Around the Sun" resonate like a good wine from the Hill Country.
Those who want to get a sense of how enjoyable Hearne is in concert should check out 2003's Michael Hearne and Friends Live at the Old Blinking Light. Besides his own quality material, Hearne throws in some tasty covers of John Prine's "Angel from Montgomery" and Jerry Jeff's "Redneck Mother." Witty, charming and immensely talented, Michael Hearne plays Americana the only way he knows how: from the heart.
On a Wednesday night in Dallas, a better songwriter would be very difficult to find.
