"Court Yard Hounds" is an album of sturdy, listenable and sometimes delightful songs that arose out of frustration, or at least impatience: Dixie Chicks members (and sisters) Emily Robison and Martie Maguire wanted to record a new CD, but lead singer Natalie Maines didn't feel ready.
So the sisters decided to work out their current musical ambitions instead of biding their time. This could have turned out very badly -- side projects and solo albums have a tendency to do that, even when the musicians involved are talented contributors to great bands.
But Robison and Maguire have made "Court Yard Hounds" memorable by focusing on their strengths. One of those is their undeniable musicianship; between the two of them, the women play accordion, banjo, bass, Dobro, guitar, mandolin, organ, viola and violin. Guest players joining them on this outing include Greg Liesz on steel guitar (he's played with everyone from Jerry Lee Lewis to Lucinda Williams to Robert Plant) and Mike Finnigan, who's played piano for folks like John Hiatt and Dave Mason. Given this lineup, it's no wonder "Court Yard Hounds" is beautifully performed from first note to last.
Also noteworthy here: Robison may not be the Chicks' lead vocalist, but she acquits herself wonderfully here and shows surprising range, sounding plaintive on one song, poweful on another, admirably restrained on the next. Maguire takes lead vocal on just one selection but provides fine harmonies throughout.
The one thing not firing on all eight cylinders here might be the songwriting. Some of the tunes are -- well, not exactly forgettable, but neither do they burn their way into your memory. Yet there are enough exceptions to make for a good record. The opening track, "Skyline," mixes melancholy and hope; there's loneliness here but also the belief that things will turn out OK:
"I just look at the skyline
A million lights are lookin' back at me
And when they shine
I see a place I know I'll find some peace
I just look at the skyline."
Other standout songs here: "The Coast," "Fairytale," "Ain't No Son" and the closer, "Fear of Wasted Time," which gives vent to a universal worry -- living one's life in a less than meaningful way.
Overall, "Court Yard Hounds" stands up as an endeavor that was worthwhile for Maguire and Robison and worthy of their fans' attention. Now, Ms. Natalie Maines: Isn't it about time you called your partners and told them you're ready?