Mark Brine,
For Karrie
Reviewed by f*v

Mark Brine is a holdover from the 1960s New England folk scene, a guitar-picker still in touch with his folk and country influences. Brine’s the kind of guy who doesn’t just know who Hank Williams is, but could list more than 3 or 4 songs; I guarantee he could tell you about people like Dave Van Ronk. He’s the kind of guy who should be played on country radio, but if he were suddenly added to some hot new country playlist, would be embarrassed at his company. The man’s done a Jimmie Rodgers tribute record...he deserves better than today’s radio fate. Even though he’s been Hank Snow’s guest on the Grand Ole Opry stage, however, Mark avoids the country clichés, and is better thought of as Americana, a mixture of influences, authentic yet unique and original. Sure, the guitars and fiddles are unashamed in their flavor, but Brine isn’t a stereotype, inserting meaningful, thoughtful lyrics throughout the record. The album feels good, carefully crafted yet authentic.

http://www.markbrine.com