This was a big night for me, 2 Hollisters shows in one night. And to top it off, this was the first show I would attend since their longtime lead guitarist/songwriter Eddie Dale left the band. I was a little nervous to see who they got to replace him, and I wasn't sure what would happen to my favorite alternative country band.

First we headed to Cactus Music for a free show The Hollisters were playing in order to promote the new album Sweet Inspiration. I got there about 2 songs in, and was impressed with what I heard. The new lead was doing a fine job, and you could hardly tell the difference with the sound. But I did miss the appearance. I missed the duct taped covered boots, and sticker covered Telecaster that had been the trademarks of Eddie Dale. The new guitarist was a nice guy though. After the show he was more than willing to sign my CD and talk for a while. Which was the reason I loved Eddie so much, he was always willing to talk about most anything. The set was only about 7 songs long, because the band had a 2-set gig at The Satellite Lounge that night.

The Satellite gig was awesome. The new guitarist got crazy on some songs. He rocked all night long. He missed the sound on a few songs like "Pike County Blues" but did a number on some of the others. During one song he even played Lap Steel and lead in the same song! I was totally impressed with him. Mike Barfield was on too. He was hootin' and hollerin' and giving everyone at the show a good earful of garbage. The rest of the band was as tight as always with Cletus on bass, and Snit on the kit. A good show and a good first showing for the new guitarist.

After that evening I was very happy that The Hollisters were able to find such a fine guitar player, and the fact that the sound is just as crisp, and the lead is just as sharp. I can't wait to go out to the next show these guys play. I'll always miss Eddie Dale, but The Hollisters are on the right track still.

Samuel Barker is Senior Editor. Contact him at suma@rockzone.com.