Album Review: Jim White vs. Packway Handle Band – Take it Like a Man (Score: 8/10)

jimwhite_vs_phb_takeitlikeaman_sm_1_2Jim White is a southern-born poet, philosopher, singer-songwriter and now, producer. White has a dry and somewhat acerbic wit that he often pens in a lot of his material. In past ventures he has utilized southern rock, country, funk and folk to spin his provocative yarns. Partnering with the Packway Handle Band steers him in the direction of inventive bluegrass. It’s a rich and amusing blend of traditional roots with a contemporary sensibility. Also, the “versus” construct is a bit of a goof. Actually White and PHB sing and play together like a hand in glove.  – Eric A. Harabadian