From The Streets Of Bakersfield - Don and Annie Kidwell
Don
and Annie Kidwell proudly hail from the streets of Bakersfield, California, the
birthplace of some of the most memorable country music ever created. The
influences of that music is clearly evident in the Don and Annie Kidwell's 1999
debut "From The Streets Of Bakersfield" and their recent follow up
release, "River of Nightlife".
The husband and wife team come with top credentials. Bakersfield's own KUZZ radio personality, Dan Robertson speaks highly of the duo. "Now and then talent comes along that reaffirms my opinion that “REAL” country music is alive and well. That’s just what I thought when I first met and heard Don and Annie Kidwell perform. Great songwriters, captivating performers and a great addition to what we proudly refer to as the Bakersfield sound."
But more than the professional accolades, its their music that speaks the best for them. With not one, but two solid compilations of some of the best honky-tonk songs you've heard in a long time, Don and Annie more than live up to the praise from their peers and fans. From the first bars of "The Game" on the debut CD "From The Streets of Bakersfield" the Kidwell's have your attention, and they work hard at making sure they keep it. Musically balanced the music flows seemingly effortlessly from honky-tonk two steps to lilting ballads and back again.
Highlights
on "River of Nightlife' are many, and include Annie's memorable cover of
Shelby Lynne's "Feelin' Kind Of Lonely Tonight' and Don's strong vocals on
the uptempo "It's Your Baby, You Rock It".
The most impressive songs happens to be included on both CD's, "Where Do We Go From Here Annie", written by Red Simpson, Don takes the listener on a journey inside of the many emotions of a relationship and the struggles that come with making music on the road.
Not only does the music dance circles around a lot of what we hear on today's radio, but Annie and Don's songwriting ability is showcased superbly on these projects as well. In particular, the honky-tonk, two-steppin' 'Nashville' and "I Feel A Heartache Comin' On' both written by Don, and Annie's rockin' country 'Baby You're Gone' and the haunting 'Over You'.
After giving them a listen, you'll agree, that it's no wonder that they are currently third on the 'Worldwide Mainstream "Most Played Artists Chart". The winning combination of singing and songwriting talents coupled with an obvious respect and enthusiasm for country music's great tradition is more than evident and guarantees to take them far. Check out Annie and Don's site at: www.donandanniekidwell.com .
Laurie Joulie Take
Country Back August 2001