Court Yard Hounds
Album: Amelita
Label: Sony
Tracks: 11
Website: http://www.courtyardhounds.com

Court Yard Hounds are sisters MartieMaguire and EmilyRobison , also known as two thirds of the Dixie Chicks. Amelita is their second album. The two have a great sound, totally different to that of the Dixie Chicks (of course they are minus Natalie Maines, who also recently recorded a new solo project, Mother,) and some lovely harmonies. At times the vocals remind me of Lori McKenna and at times of Sheryl Crow, which is no small compliment! They have also drawn comparisons to Mindy Smith.

Their debut, self titled, 2010 release garnered critical acclaim and this Cd looks set to follow in its footsteps. The upbeat Sunshine, one of my favourites, is already proving to be a summer radio hit, especially on BBC Radio 2. Really, however, this is a CD of strong, well written, delivered and produced songs, which should be heard and enjoyed by not only fans of the Dixie Chicks, but all fans of good Americana and country music.

Helen Mitchell