It’s difficult to get more retro than Woody Pines. Pines’ lyrical and musical swagger calls to mind early rock’n’roll — fun and a little edgy, but before rock became mired in grit and seedy territory. According to his site, Pines is every inch the rambling folkie that comes through on this record. Really, you won’t be able to listen to Rabbits Motel without kicking off your boots and cutting a rug.
As fun as swingers such as “Like I Do” and “Keep Your Hands Off Her,” I think the album’s strongest songs are its most contemplative: “Hobo And His Bride” and “Close Your Eyes and Dream” are truly moving.
Pines reminds me of JD McPherson — not musically; Pines sets himself a couple of decades earlier. LIke McPherson, his joy and obvious adoration of the music he pays homage to is contagious: this is not a guy who wishes he was from another time. He’s living it, and he’s inviting us to join him.