The Mavericks
Album: In Time
Label: Decca
Tracks: 12
Website: http://www.mavericksmusic.com

Mavericks fans have waited most of a decade for this, their new studio album release. I wonder if anyone dared hope it would be a good as it is. Blending, as always the country, rock and Latin sounds for which they are renowned, they have pulled together a great collection of songs, which musically sounds more varied than any of its predecessors.

I still find myself at a loss as to what it is about lead singer Raul Malo's voice that is so unique and appealing, but he certainly sounds as great as ever. The band are as tight and sound as much like a well oiled machine as they ever did, no mean feat, I'm sure, after such a lengthy hiatus. Stand out tracks? Hard to choose but I find myself pressing repeat most after Call Me When You Get to Heaven and Come Unto Me.

I think it is safe to say there will be some very happy Mavericks fans of old, and some new ones won over who didn't hear them the first time around.

Helen Mitchell