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Texas western swing band Reid Wells
& Segovia 1862 have just released this their third
album with a mix of covers and original songs written by
the band's front man Reid Wells. The album title Segovia
Road comes from an old military road that supplied
the US Army, running from San Antonio, Texas to Fort
Terrett (1852-54) and was later used by settlers as the
main route to San Antone. The name Segovia originally came
from the beautiful Spanish city of that name and more
recently adopted by Reid and the band.
Reid takes lead-vocals while his brother
Carson does a fine job on steel guitar. Other members of the
band are all top-draw Texas western swing musicians including
Bobby Flores (guitars and fiddle), ex - Asleep At The Wheel
piano pounder Floyd Domino, Jake Hooker (bass) and Jim Loessberg
(drums).
Ray Pennington is one of the top songwriters
in country and western swing music and Segovia Road opens with
his superb mid-paced "Someone Out
In Dallas". Continuing, things are slowed down for
a fond look at "Grandpa's Barn"
and a glimpse at a way of life from yesteryear. Reid and the
band offer a breathtaking version of the old standard "It
Happened In Monterrey", with the boys in the band
taking some fine musical breaks. Another standout number that
showcases the musicians skilled prowess comes when the band
revisit Johnny Gimble/Bob Wills' "I
Needed You". Furthermore this band of fine musicians
is given their own opportunity to shine with a breath-taking
instrumental version of "Let It Be
Me" (remembered from the Everly Brothers).
The musicianship is right on the
money and Reid's vocals are rich and warm connecting well
with the listener with his fine vocal phrasing. The first
of Reid's own compositions comes with the waltz styled
"I Imagine Her In My Arms".
Later other originals from Reid are found with the
inspiring "More That I Ever
Bargained For", "She's
Just In Your Dreams" and "1862
Ride" an instrumental that brings this
first-rate album to a close all too soon.
In all Segovia
Road contains 12 tracks that sparkle like stars in
a Texas night sky!!! Throughout the entire album the band
members all offer teasing glimpses of their exceptional
musical talents and Reid's vocals pricks-up the ears with
his colourful style of vocals. Clearly a good variety of
songs…even next door's cat licks it up!!!
Graham Lees Oct 2006
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