J-200 - Trip From Grace

About the only thing wrong with J-200's second album is that it ends too soon. But better to have 34 minutes of terrific music than an hour marred by filler. Reminiscent of The Star Room Boys' This World Just Won't Leave You Alone, another fine 2002 release, this is alt-country at its best -- smart, hip, and with a strong rock & roll spirit. Renee Giron is a fabulous lead vocalist -- inventive, emotional, and flexible -- who excels at everything from driving rockers to lush ballads. Guitarist and chief songwriter Jacque Judy pens extremely catchy melodies and moody, memorable lyrics about struggling singers and failed romances. And the band -- whose roots and influences range from punk to traditional country -- is consistently engaging. The up-tempo "Big Guitars" has the album's most addictive hooks and hottest guitar licks, but there's not a bad apple in the bunch. ~ Jeff Burger, All Music Guide