Dylan LeBlanc was practically raised in the legendary Fame Studios where his dad was a regular player, and where legends like Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett, Etta James and countless others recorded. Fittingly, Fame Studio put out LeBlanc’s critically acclaimed 2010 debut, Paupers Field, which was a fantastic record. Unfortunately many fans and critics were disappointed by the 2012 follow-up, Cast the Same Old Shadow, which was hindered by inconsistencies. Fast forward to 2016 and LeBlanc’s third album Cautionary Tale, which is a collection of country-soul songs about coming to terms with youthful mistakes. This time around LeBlanc enlisted fellow Muscle Shoals musicians John Paul White (The Civil Wars) and Ben Tanner (Alabama Shakes) to solidify his sound, resulting in his most mature, cohesive record to date featuring tight production and sterling performances. Standouts tracks include: the title track; the Neil Young-esque “Easy Way Out”; the Eagles reminiscent “Roll the Dice”; and the hushed tunes “Lightning and Thunder” and “Paradise.” A Cautionary Tale is a polished release and LeBlanc’s finest to date. – Written by JFelton
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