The group offers a uniquely organic sound with free-flowing grooves, rollicking upright pianos, banging upright bass, jangling acoustic guitars, sawing fiddles and relentless banjos that feels more retro '70s country rock, than the alt country it will most likely be called.

That's not a bad thing.

It all comes into play on "The Palace Flophouse,"

The group offers a uniquely organic sound with free-flowing grooves, rollicking upright pianos, banging upright bass, jangling acoustic guitars, sawing fiddles and relentless banjos that feels more retro '70s country rock, than the alt country it will most likely be called.

That's not a bad thing.

It all comes into play on "The Palace Flophouse," a song with rambunctious playing and a lot of heart that was inspired by a story from John Steinbeck's ''Cannery Row.'' The plaintive, spare, not-good-enough-for-you ode "Smoke Before The Flame" is moving, while "Late September Wind" is simply gorgeous. The banjo-driven "Tabletop Mountain" is a mournful love gone bad story, while "Waiting for the Dawn" is a delicate folk song that's both beautiful and poignant.

This is a strong record by folks who are defiantly in it for the music. Rusticator makes a big splash with this wonderful collection of songs, so seek this record out, as well as its live shows. You surely won't be disappointed.

Review by David Malachowski - The Times Union