The most distinctive William Brooks album yet, Bitter Circus is solidly rocked out by this troubador and his band. There's a blusey drive here that reminds us of Bonnie Raitt's style of playing--a quality gets pushed further by Aaron Stroessner's (Dead Left) great guitar playing as well as piano from Peter Adams (Carly Simon, Julianna Hatfield, Tracy Bonham). Lyle Lovett's horn section sounds great on tracks like "My Love Looks the Other Way" and "Try It Like This." "Barn" and "Beggar" are standouts as well.

Blue Ribbon

Silent Wings

Fowl Mouth

Karma Dogs