Good music can bring up all kinds of emotions. But in that same breath, it does not always need to be deep and thought provoking either. Sometimes we just want to listen and have some fun, maybe even a good laugh. Our recent discovery Reagan Hudson fills that space with his newest record House Arrest Ankle Bracelet.
The western North Carolina native is an everyman that just happens to write good country/bluegrass songs that put a smile on your face. In daily life Reagan Hudson is a cattle farmer who is an avid history buff that loves folklore and the country lifestyle. He has found a way to find joy in writing songs that tackle some difficult situations with a smirk. This has a way of spinning them into a fun listen even with the sometimes dark undertone.
Last month’s release of House Arrest Ankle Bracelet puts the Reagan Hudson sound out into the world at a time when we can all use a break. The album is filled with unique songs and stories about everything from happy times to heartaches.
Have some fun on ‘House Arrest Ankle Bracelet‘
Opening up with the title track “House Arrest Ankle Bracelet” it is evident right away this will be a laugh infused sonic journey. The simple country blues style gets your head bopping along as Reagan Hudson tells his humorous musings of visiting some ladies under house arrest.
In true country music style, the songwriter shares stories of lost love on “Everyday” and “Broken Pieces Of My Heart.” The latter seems simple in nature but there is a lot of sound going on to fill the speakers. Having Dale Meyer on guitar, bass, and keyboard, along with James Brock on drums, and Jim Ashton on steel guitar helps that all come together perfectly.
Another fun listen (without the happy subject) is the lead single “Mama’s Going to Rehab.” Every family has their issues, maybe not as many as the protagonists of this song, but if we are willing to laugh along we can see how our lives aren’t quite that bad. A happier energy comes to the album with “Chillicothe Prison.” The picked and slide guitar playing here is excellent, giving the track some speed and showing true musicianship. Reagan Hudson’s slow drawl vocal style pairs surprisingly well on this one creating perhaps my favorite song of the record.
Reagan Hudson has delivered a great listen for both lovers of the classic storytelling bluegrass country sound as well as those who are just in it for a fun listen that is not quite in their mainstream listening habits. Great for all.
