RAUL MALO

After Hours

2007-08-10

After Hours is Raul Malo's third album as a solo artist, and it resembles a collection of archaic stories that have been taken out of context. His take on 10 country classics is anything but familiar, and the crooner, whose smooth vocal stylings are unparalleled, creates a smoky lounge vibe by tweaking the tunes of America's western heroes. Hank Williams' "Cold, Cold Heart" is set to swing, and is as playful as it is polished. Another gem is Kris Kristofferson's lovelorn lament, "For the Good Times," the song that best showcases Malo's emotive vocal stamina. In truth, the only tune that still has remnants of traditional twang is Roger Miller's "Husbands and Wives," although Malo's version is a bit more sultry than the original. Yes, Raul Malo is a contemporary cowboy who has yet to lose his sense of adventure. Sara Cosgrove

Quick Links:

• Raul Malo's Official Website
• Raul Malo's MySpace