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Scott Miller (formerly of the V-Roys and Scott Miller and the Commonwealth) has been on the verge of stardom for quite some time.   None other than Steve Earle championed the V-Roys, and Miller was the lead of the house band on the successful "Blue Collar TV" show.  This is his third album with Sugar Hill, and his roots rock approach rings true on Citation.

Miller combines the best of country, rock, and singer-songwriters of the '70's.  This is never so evident as on "Freedom is a Stranger," which could be described as "Jack and Diane in the Summer of ''69."   "Citation" is a rite of passage tune that sums life, love,  and lust in a small town backdrop.  "The Only Road" mixes Tom Petty with other Southern influences. 

Humor gets mixed in with Miller's songs, sometimes painfully so.  "8 Miles a Gallon" is about his faithful tour bus, and the partying that ensues upon arrival, while lamenting the cost of the fuel that gets him from place to place.   "On a Roll" is a portrayal of a gambler, who talks both to his cards and to God, hoping one of them will answer his prayers.

"Jody" is one of the war songs on the disc.  The title refers to a military slang term – the man who cheats with your wife or girlfriend while you are overseas.   This is followed by "Hawks and Doves", a Neil Young cover.  This should not be interpreted as a pro-war song, by any means, but more of a political commentary on the state of the country's governmental philosophies.   You may not agree with it, but you will certainly be drawn in by it.

The older I get, the more I notice the gap between traditional rock music and well done country music is shrinking.   Musicians like Scott Miller help me to bridge that gap and recognize their songs for what they are – good music, regardless of genre.  Citation functions well in this purpose. 

Brian A. Smith
2/3/2006