Karen Haglof comes up with a likable set of catchy and well-played songs in the country/roots-rock vein. Her voice is endearing, strong, matter-of-fact and honest, and her powerful slide guitar work propels the music down the rockin’ railroad tracks of her unique western vision. The lyrics are inventive and sometimes wryly sarcastic, such as on “Musician’s Girlfriend Blues” (“I know the wounded loner stance makes fans sigh and swoon”), where producer Mitch Easter also makes a surprise guitar visit. This is the best female Americana release since Car Wheels on a Gravel Road. – David Arnson
Album Review: Karen Haglof - "Western Holiday" (Score: 9/10)
