Okay, so there have been some minor personnel changes over the years, but at the center of Honeybrowne has been Fred Andrews from day one. You must ask yourself what that means to this great Texas band. It means everything. Andrews was there in the Gregg Carter days, the Shade Degges era, through the times with Clay Garcia, and it could get complicated if you let it. The most important thing to remember is that the music has remained strong. “REAL” was recorded first, but not released first, and it is dripping with the very waters that washed the mediocrity right out of Honeybrowne. Alternative rock, country, and I think some Sam Cooke were major influences in the presentation of the Honeybrowne experience, and what a blend that makes. “FINDING SHADE” (Levy Records) is the coming-of-age release that solidifies Honeybrowne’s position in the Texas music marketplace. From the opening Stephen Stills cover, “Love The One You’re With” to “Julie At The Bar” which, with Riley Osborn’s keyboard work and the primal rhythm on the verse, this disc speaks to fellow musicians with staunch reminders of why you ever started singing in the first place. For fans, it’s as comfortable as your wool-lined denim in February. It’s the kind of disc you can leave in the player all day. “LIVE AT THE FABULOUS SATELLITE LOUNGE” (Levy Records) is an auditory snapshot of a Honeybrowne concert. I found it was better when played very loud, simulating the nightclub experience. I did, however, have the power to adjust the volume so that I could converse with the pretty girl next to me. She was enjoying the music, so she never talked to me anyway. “GOOD FOR NUTHIN’” is the November 2003 release, and we expect it any day now. My advance copy tells me that the band has reached another plateau. Yes, Fred Andrews is still here on this Carlos Sosa (Asylum Street Spankers, Vallejo) production, this time with Alex Weeden, Sean Salinas, Sam Arnold, and a special appearance by Pat Green. The commercial stuff still exists, better than ever, but the band has let loose on the artistic side this time. This album kicks butt from start to finish. Two more titles have recently been added - become the newest Honeybrowne fan today!