Jason and the Scorchers

Thunder and Fire (A & M) *** 1/2

Mark Caro; Chicago Tribune
August 3, 1989, Thursday

Copyright 1989-2004 Chicago Tribune Company

“There ain’t no turning back,” sings Jason Ringenberg during one of the few quiet moments on Jason and the Scorchers’ fourth album. Instead of getting discouraged by the lack of commercial acceptance for their brand of country-thrash and softening their approach, the Scorchers have steadily moved closer to capturing their ferocious live sound in the studio. Guitars dominate, though mandolins or horns round off the edges. Jason is no snarler - his voice is plaintive - and his melodies keep ringing long after the volume subsides.

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