It's Chris Knight-Not Steve Earle

Back in 1998, when I first reviewed Chris Knight's debut album on MCA, I made references to Steve Earle. How could I not? The sound and voice were similar, but Knight's lyrics were darker in the depiction of his smalltown life in Kentucky. Now off of MCA, and on Indie Drifter's Chruch, Knight's 4th album, Enough Rope, continues in the same vein. Even though it was produced by Nashville vet, Gary Nicholson, it rocks harder than his 2nd & 3rd album. The lyrics haven't changed. Taking the "man" to task for screwing up his daddy's farm or giving his loved one comfort in "Cry Lonely", Knight's his own artist. So, the comparison's with early Earle will continue, but Knight is no political artist. And if you miss Earle's gritty early days, then Knight's hardworn smalltown tales will get you over.