Americana-UK (Sept. 2004)

Joe Pagetta "Joywood" (Fully Dressed 2004)

Available: Now.

New Jersey born Joe Pagetta may have moved to Nashville, but there's plenty of the trademark NJ toughness and grit about this album. There's also more than a hint of Springsteen and Southside from time to time, but overall he's avoided the soundalike trap fallen into by others. With an impressive supporting cast including Kim Carnes and George Marinelli Jr. (of Bruce Hornsby and Bonnie Raitt fame) as producer, "Joywood" rocks and rolls along in a head-noddingly effortless way. Superior American bar-room rock and roll, and well worth a listen.
www.joepagetta.com
JS
6 out of 10 (Numbered Review)