Released a couple of months ago, Chris Milam’s Orchid South LP initially slipped under the radar. I don’t recall checking it out, but I can imagine dismissing it quickly for being it a bit too polished for my taste. If I did, I was wrong. While this record has mainstream appeal and an arena-ready sound, I think a lot of our readers will find much to like in this collection of songs.

Featuring an all-star cast from the Memphis scene that includes members of The Hold Steady, Spiral Stairs, Lucero, and Twin Forks, Orchid South exudes a heartland rock vibe and an alt-country twang. The huge choruses, powerful guitars, and horn sections are familiar territory, but Milam gives them a fresh coat of paint. Fans of Dave Hause, Tom Petty, The Hold Steady, and later-era Replacements should take note.

Orchid South is out now on M records.

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