Robbie Fulks is often considered one of the most underrated and talented southern music singer/songwriters, and with his latest release, Upland Stories, he once again proves why he is a modern day legend. Fulks’ first album Country Love Songs was released on Bloodshot records in 1996 and fittingly, two decades later he brings us Upland Stories. Compared to 2013’s acclaimed Gone Away Backward – a stripped down, bare bones Depression-era country sounding acoustic set – Upland Stories feels like a companion but with a broader musical range, featuring his characteristically rich vocals; folk, country and bluegrass melodies; and smart narratives. Produced by longtime co-producer Steve Albini, the 12 song collection also showcases the contributions gifted artists including Wayne Horvitz (keys), Fats Kaplin (fiddle), Todd Phillips (double bass), Robbie Gjersoe (guitar), and Jenny Scheinman (violin). Album highlights include: the opening track “Alabama at Night”; the bittersweet “Needed”; the Irish jig “Katy Kay”; the lighthearted “Aunt Peg’s New Old Man”; and the Upland (Virginia/North Carolina) infused “Fare Thee Well, Carolina Gals.” Now in his fifties, Fulks continues to hone his craft both as a songwriter and as a recording artist, culminating in some of his best work yet. – Written by JFelton
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