Artist: Michael Ubaldini & the Lonesome Playboys
Title: Storms of Trouble (Blackwater Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Gram Parsons, Bruce Springsteen, Hank Williams, Bob Dylan
Tell me more: Acclaimed singer-songwriter Michael Ubaldini is back with Storms of Trouble, an EP featuring an outstanding batch of songs that artfully blend Americana, roots rock, alt country and other authentic styles in the service of his signature songcraft.
The lead-off title track is a beautiful original where the artist sings of his own challenges with candor and insight, the power of his words bolstered by the roots-swept songcraft. "Lost In The Shuffle" is a rollicking countrified rocker that casts a probing and playful look at love gone wrong.
Another standout track on his EP is "Long Road Back to Californy," a rootsy rock song whose lyrical story of the struggles of making a long road trip is simultaneously a metaphor for a journey through life itself.
Two rare bonus tracks round out the EP; "Tombstone Woman" and "One Good Woman Blues" were recorded in Austin, Texas and mastered by Jerry Tubb (the latter whose credits include working on records by John Lennon, Willie Nelson and Paul McCartney).
Storms of Trouble was recorded live in the studio with no overdubs, including Ubaldini's vocals and sharp guitar work. What's more, the title was recorded on analogue tape. Along with Ubaldini on guitar and vocals, the talents of Jeremy Long (piano, organ), John Mctuige (drums) and Jared Manzo (bass) are featured on the title. Storms of Trouble is currently available on 12-inch limited edition colored vinyl.
Ubaldini is currently on tour, and has several announced dates in Southern California and Nashville, TN.
Information: rocknrollpoet.com. 
Robert Kinsler
