Moving Up Country' deserves to be remembered as one of the noughties' finest records, with Yorkston capably evoking the folk tradition of sprawling instrumentation amidst an even more sprawling storytelling ability. The gentle piano tones of 'St Patrick', with a tantalising violin finish, and the opener 'In Your Hands', introduce the tender and wistful tone of Yorkston's voice amidst layers of lush sounds. The title track is imbued with a sense of melancholy, as a hushed accordion helps it slowly drift along. 'I Spy Dogs' remains an upbeat number with erratic guitar, and '6:30 Is Just Way Too Early' finishes with a flourishing organ, a testament to the capable and dynamic music created by the band on this stunning debut.
Track Listing:
1. In Your Hands - James Yorkston & The Athletes (3.28)
2. St. Patrick - James Yorkston & The Athletes (5.29)
3. Sweet Jesus - James Yorkston & The Athletes (4.48)
4. Tender to the Blues - James Yorkston & The Athletes (4.19)
5. Moving Up Country, Roaring the Gospel - James Yorkston & The Athletes (5.34)
6. Cheating the Game - James Yorkston & The Athletes (3.44)
7. I Spy Dogs - James Yorkston & The Athletes (4.23)
8. 6:30 Is Just Way Too Early - James Yorkston & The Athletes (5.04)
9. The Patience Song - James Yorkston & The Athletes (5.06)
10. I Know My Love - James Yorkston & The Athletes (7.18)
Year of Production: 2002
