Sometimes referred to as Roots Rock or Power Folk, a mixture of Blues and Country Rock, this album by Tony Denikos makes a compelling sound and holds your attention. Coming from the Baltimore-Washington area of the U.S.A., he was formally known as Tony De but has now decided to use his full name. No matter what he's called, it was a pleasure for me as this is the first time I have heard him sing, and I have to say, liked what I heard. Tony writes all the songs on this album and sings with what I call a gutsy voice putting his all into the songs. The country twang in his voice puts me in mind of Waylon Jenings and John Dillon with shades of Steve Earl and John Hiatt.

These days Tony Denikos is heading a band at his gigs, and he seems to have an army of really good musicians on this album doing the business. The main ones seem to be Andy Hamburger on drums, Greg Hemming on bass, Gantt Kushner on electric guitar, Tony Denikos on vocals & acoustic guitar, with backing vocals provided by Jen Smith, Patty Reese, Meg Murray, Kevin Martin, Matt McConville, and Mike Miller.

If there is a theme for Time Tells Tales, it might be a reflection of his 'country boy' youth, and the first awkward inexperienced fumbling with your first girl friends. Having a nice funky feel throughout the album it really holds your attention. The only song that might be described as the odd one out being 'Kill 'em All' at track 5, the lyrics reflecting the first reaction of shock and anger on seeing the World Trade Centre on 9/11 – wondering how the hell this could happen.

As for a favourite track, 'Hold Your Hand' comes a close second to the last track a song called 'Tin Roofs in the Rain'. If you listen to it, and read the lyrics, then, to quote the last line of each verse, “you'd understand” why Time Tells Tales.

This is a superb album from a Country Rock singer who not only can sing, but knows how to write a good song.

I liked the album, and Country Rock fans are going to love it!