By DOTTIE PARIS

James Adkins has the wisdom of a sage and delivers his words on a dynamic country platform with the new album Brokedown Free Man Blues.

Adkins’ picking style is compelling, his voice is clear and the message is succinct: There will be another day to enjoy this life.

Adkins is no stranger to accolades and awards and it shows in his work. He is the 2013 South Alabama Flat Picking Champion, he toured with Big Virginia Sky, as part of Katie Rogers’ band he opened for The Band Perry, he opened for Taylor Hicks and he’s endorsed by Bedell/Breedlove Guitar.

One of our favorites on this album are “You Are So MINE,” a jazzy country song that is innovative in its approach to blending two distinct genres. The song moves into a nice groove and also includes some horn and organ elements reminicent of the good days of the band Chicago. It’s a truly interesting song.

An excellent example of Adkins’ style is the song “Hard Road To Go,” a true country winner. It’s easy to see why Adkins is an award winner when it comes to finger picking. It is a truly beautiful song about staying motivated in a tough time. But if listening to this song is a hard road we will not take any quick exits, this is a pleasure trip.

Artist Name: James Adkins
Location: Findlay Ohio
Release Name: Brokedown Free Man Blues
Label: Independent

Track List:
1. Don’t Say Goodbye
2. Oh Lord Virginia
3. Brokedown Free Man Blues
4. Mountainside
5. You Are So MINE
6. Ghost
7. Hard Road to Go
8. On My Mind
9. Madly On (Mad Leon)
10. Goodbye Trouble

Musicians:
James Adkins: Vocals and Guitar
Brandon Bostic: Dobro, Pedal Steel, Lap Steel
Ashby Frank: Mandolin
Tim Crouch: Orchestral Instruments, Mandolin, Banjo, Percussion
Scott Vestal: Banjo, Synth Banjo
Anna Edström: Harmony Vocals
Dale Lazar: Drums, Percussion
Steve Lazar: Electric Bass, Acoustic Bass