I Just Can't Call It Quits -

 “His jaunty rhythms, folksy vocals and good-natured attitude reflect the fact that he genuinely enjoys what he does…comes across like a companion and confidant who makes you feel instantly at ease.”— Lee Zimmerman  read the review

"Trying to pigeonhole Patterson is a daunting task…But his flights are always worth tracking, a unique glidepath to marvel at and follow closely.” — Grant Britt  read the review

“…a legend with still a lot left to say…unpretentious, back porch Americana with nods to folk and Country…it’s heartening that someone like Barrett is not only still around, but still making great music.” — John B. Moore  read the review

“…a sweet and heartfelt set of songs… one of those singing voices that sounds as though he’s lived a whole lot of life …Let’s hope Patterson Barrett is right when he says, “I Just Can’t Call it Quits,” because he has so many more moments of pure goodness left to offer the world.” — Dan MacIntosh  read the review

“Patterson Barrett is a legendary musician who has called Austin, Texas home for nearly five decades…The record crackles to life…Patterson and Buddy’s fraternal harmonies dovetail with Louvin-esque synchronicity…” — Eleni P, Austin  read the review

“…a most agreeable set of songs that reflects what can only be described as a most desirable disposition…manages to maintain its sense of assurance even in the midst of some heartbreaking happenstance.” — Lee Zimmerman  read the review

 

 

Patterson Barrett is Sure to Satisfy —Patterson Barrett is a journeyman musician of the highest order. Along with an impressive stream of solo endeavors, his work as a session man regularly enriches the efforts of others. On his new album, the aptly titled Give ‘Em What They Want, several of Patterson’s pals repay the favor -- Buddy Miller, Gurf Morlix, Brian Langlinas, Jim Lauderdale, and Renee Wahl, among them. Not that Barrett doesn’t make music that succeeds on its own merits as well. As judged by the eleven songs contained herein, his reputation as a tacit troubador is solid and succinct. Wit is a prime resource here; “Coldwater County” drops in the lyrics of several well known standards of a vintage variety to spawn what’s best described as an authentic hillbilly lament. The loose and loping “Young Alleycats” references the down home approach once borne out by the Band, making it a decidedly agreeable entry that’s representative of Barrett’s obvious influences. Likewise, the funky strut that accompanies the title track brings to mind the southern sass of Little Feat, just as the blissful ballad “If I Only Knew” and the untitled bonus track show he’s equally adept at imparting a tender touch. This is home-brewed music of the finest variety, a sound that has him situated somewhere between the neighbors’ back porch and a local honky tonk that’s located just up the street and well with inreach. Barrett takes on an unassuming stance throughout, and between the pedal steel guitars, the lilting delivery and a genuinely humble vocal stance, the lack of pretense and posturing is ready made to endear him to his listener, even on first hearing. Give ‘Em What They Want provides all it promises.  ” - Lee Zimmerman

No Depresssion

...There's something about this CD that comes through loud and clear: Barrett's earnest and charming songs and playing to match...there's a thread of honesty and soulfulness that runs through 'I Must Be Dreaming"...Trust me, this one will grow on you.” - Michael Lipton

Charleston Gazette

“…All good. All really good…He can write—exceptionally well. He can sing—pretty well. He can play-—man, he can play. Add the guests, the sound, the production, a big plus for the lyrics…Damn fine stuff, this. Well worth checking out.”” - Frank Gutch Jr.

Folk and Acoustic Music Exchange

This little gem from veteran player and multi-instrumentalist Patterson Barrett doesn’t sound anything like a debut solo album, not with the likes of Buddy and Julie Miller helping out. ... his voice suits the laid-back sentiment of “Back in My Heart” and “Somewhere Far Away.” What really sets the all-original "I Must Be Dreaming" apart is its tender ability to tap into the vagaries of midlife without sounding like overgrown teen angst.” - Margaret Moser

Austin Chronicle

RATING: **** (4.5 out of 5 Stars)”

International Acoustic Music Awards

“Forget the fact this is Patterson Barrett’s solo debut; he bears impressive credentials and considerable star connections…Barrett’s blue collar-country reveals a no-nonsense delivery and a keen eye for detail” Top 12 DIY Picks”

Performing Songwriter/Nov. 2007

...(this) veteran has, after decades of experience, released a debut that he created on his own terms...and the knowledge that (he) got it right is an important part of any artist's career".” - Willie G. Moseley

— Vintage Guitar magazine/Feb. 2008 issue

Barrett assembles an arresting collection of original tunes. His songs combine alt-country musical textures with relaxed folky arrangements to create musical tableaus...” - Steven Stone

— Vintage Guitar Magazine

One of those heavy cats you never heard of because he chose to hang around Austin and raise his kids rather than hit the road finally takes his turn to step out. After years of working with Jerry Jeff Walker, Nanci Griffith, Gurf Morlix, Buddy & Julie Miller, Lou Ann Barton and lots of others you like from the Americana realm, this is a tasty work out that includes several of the above as well as a reunion with high school sweetie, Deborah Holland. A delightfully heartfelt and beautiful set that has been way too long in the making, this is a must for Americana fans, who are certain to flip out at discovering an important missing link.” - Chris Spector

Midwest Record