Another Long Story Country Music International September 2000 Alan Cackett Kevin Montgomery is dedicated to music in the vein of Steve Earle, Chris Knight, Big House, Jack Ingram and a whole generation of like-minded introspective, populist hell-raisers. He grew up in Music Row's mainstream; father Bob Montgomery, a one-time Buddy Holly collaborator, is a veteran country songwriter and producer, while his mother used to work as a Nashville session singer. As a writer, Kevin has also enjoyed mainstream recognition, with cuts by Juice Newton, Martina McBride and others. He recorded a long-forgotten album for A&M some six years ago, but Another Long Story is quite a different proposition altogether. This record is proof positive you don't need superstar status, corporate publishing ties or a mid-six figure advance to sign great talent, find exceptional songs and record an album actually worth 15 quid. The title tune, an ode to a troubled life, grows on you. There's something so darn likeable about this little groove and his unforced, sincere delivery. Lookin' Out For No.1 boasts a hypnotic backbeat, an ear-catching guitar twang and an extremely inventive lyric. Let's All Go To California has big fat guitars and muscular rhythm; swirling production and fabulously catchy melody; drawling vocal sincerity and a commanding vibe. The overall tempo of Angel Tonight, a harrowing tale of an intended suicide, is on the subdued side with some haunting steel, along with the electric guitar. I like this guy. He communicates. Whether through his own co-written songs or the inspired version of Bruce Springsteen's I Wish I Were Blind, you know that you are listening to a guy who sings from the heart and not the head.