Hans Rotenberry & Brad Jones - Mountain Jack (2010)

"Mountain Jack" is the first collaborative effort between Hans Rotenberry (The Shazam) and Nashville artist/producer Brad Jones (who just happened to have produced the first four Shazam albums). The two long-time friends performed and shared lead vocals on every track, their combined influences resulting in a unique "Popicana" record! The record showcases everything their previous work together has always produced: solid tunes, solid playing, catchy melodies, and a sense of humor.

This came out earlier this year, and despite almost no PR effort at all it has managed to become a favorite amongst music bloggers. It’s also been really tough to get ahold of. Shazam frontman Hans Rotenberry, and Shazam’s former producers Brad Jones unite to forge a Americana album with a sweet power pop spin. The compelling jangle of “Count On Me” and “A Likely Lad” have Jones (Guilt Flake) fingerprints all over them.

Rotenberry’s “Froggy Mountain Shakedown” and “Back To Bristol” have a Kinks “Muswell Hillbillies” flavoring. The melodies shine brightly and both artists work to make the album as repeat-friendly as possible. These two titans of Nashville power pop have also kept things understated enough on tracks like “Puttin’ On Airs Tonight” and “Buffalo Daughter” to keep things poppy, but still clinging to those country roots. Also one track alone doesn’t carry the album, nor does one songwriter dominate – each track just sounds great. Simply put, the best musical collaboration this year and yes – it makes my best of 2011 year end list.