Cory Morrow

Outside The Lines

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(Write On Records) Cory's 3rd solo studio CD finds him on a new label- his own. As soon as you pop this one in the CD player, you'll also find he's moving in new directions as well.

In his latest offering, Cory's given us songs that are more introspective, touching on sprituality and relationships, along with the good timing fare that's made him a popular fixture on the Texas music circuit. While some argue that Cory's lyrics can at times border the "cliched", his biggest strength is in his melodies, which prevents even the occasional cliche from turning a song into a bad one, and once again he comes up with some beauties. Another notable difference is, he brings in Jessica Murray on harmonies, which gives the songs a rich, fuller sound.

 

Outside The Lines opens with the rousing honky tonk title track, one so infectious it's nearly impossible not to head immediately for the dance floor. "(Love Me) Like You Used To Do" is a jangly country romp, begging the girl he left behind to take him back. "In Spite Of Spite" is a contemporary take on a conversation Jesus might have had with his Father.

"Friend Of The Devil" is a fiddle laden, bluegrass leaning cover of the classic Grateful Dead song, that works well, especially within the context of the CD. "Take Me Away" has a great hooky melody that you'll find yourself wanting to sing along with the minute you hear it. This one finds him trying to win the battle of staying away from a women he's fallen in love with, but that treats him badly.

"More Than Perfect" is a beautiful Celtic inflected song, professing his love for his woman. "Straight To Hell" is a cover of the Georgia band Drivin' N Cryin' song, originally done as a ballad. Cory really kicks it up here, and turns it into an all out rockin' barnburner- sure to be a highlight of live shows, and one of the standout tunes on the CD. "Drink Alone" is a remake of a song originally done on Cory's '95 EP. Another beautiful melody, drenched in fiddle, this song tells of the lonliness of life on the road. 

"Dance By The Rio Grande" is a fun Tex-Mex tune about a wild night with a mysterious lady, who suddenly appears and then disappears when the sun comes up. "Misty Shade Of Blue" is an all out country rocker about being left by his lover. "All Over Again", heavy on the steel, is about how he hates being away from the one he loves. "Better Than Being In Love With You" is another bluegrass tinged song about a man walking away from a woman that doesn't appreciate him, even after all he's given of himself to her. The CD ends with a mesmerizing instrumental, "Sunday Drivin", featuring steel, fiddle, dobro and mandolin, proving Cory's way with a melody.

 

Co-produced with Lloyd Maines, a solid effort by Cory that highlights his artistic growth.

 

For more on Cory Morrow visit his website at: www.corymorrow.com