CD REVIEW: Ray LaMontagne & The Pariah Dogs "God Willin' & The Creek Don't Rise"

The mellow soul master is back, and this time he's brought his friends along for the ride. Self producing this latest album, Ray LaMontange formed an essential backing band called The Pariah Dogs which features some of the best in the business. The album pretty much stays along the standard format that Ray is used to, with a bit more classic rock and country music influence throughout. The most exciting track on the album is the lead off song "Repo Man," which features a bit of funkiness not heard in LaMontagne's music on any of his previous three albums. Of the ten tracks, seven feature Ray's signature deep soul vocals over a bed of mellow acoustic driven soundtrack. The first single "Beg, Steal, Or Borrow" is an instant LaMontagne classic, and will most likely go down as one of his best written. "For The Summer" and "Like Rock & Roll And Radio" are also incredible songs that are sure to become instant fan favorites. This new DIY approach to music that LaMontagne & Co. have taken on this album makes the music much more organic, proving that LaMontagne is one of this generations best songwriters and performers.