Kenny Meeks: "Unfaded"

Here it is, plain and simple: Kenny Meeks’ third album, “Unfaded,” is straight-up fun. Full report: a good time was had by all.

The former Sixpence member does a whole lot of things right on "Unfaded," including inviting some of his very talented friends. There's a LOT of pretty pickin' on this bluegrass/soul project, there's a church choir, and there's the smokin' Sandra McCracken and Nicol Smith to steam up the background. "Unfaded" is ten tracks of sheer Americana bliss.

I loved the lonely wailing of "Holdin' On," the bouncy fun of good-time track, "Wonderin' Where My Honey's Gone," and the lovely string interplay on "Moonlight on the Water." But the track that really got me jumpin' was the bluesy rocker "Found My Daddy Cryin," with Smith steamin' up the background behind Meeks' slippery slide guitar. Oh yeah. "Black Mountain" builds to a joyful crescendo of pleasure, the choir tearing it up with Meeks. The title track closes up with a solid country turn, leaving you wanting more. "Unfaded," but not quickly forgotten.