A wanderer who settled into New Mexico to write, Nels Andrews has released his second album, Off Track Betting.  His first disc was the result of winning the Kenville Folk Fest and earned awards along with critical acclaim in the U.S. and Europe. 

He has been praised for his "ability to conjure entire vistas and characters in no more than a couple lines ..." Americana UK.  While this recognition has led him to tour the US, UK and Europe, he has also been known to give telephone interviews on lunch breaks from construction jobs.

"A tramp dreams and wanders" is the quote Nels Andrews chose to include on his MySpace page, that also includes the address Brooklyn, New Mexico, a homage to his two hometowns of late.  Off Track Betting was recorded in Brooklyn at Trout Studios under the guidance of Todd Sickafoose (producer).  After winning the New Folk Songwriting Contest with a homemade tape, he continues to take a nontraditional approach to his music.  During the recording process they used a myriad of nontraditional folk, even studio instruments, to enhance the sound of the disc.  There is a quiet, inviting space that they play in during recording that carries through to the final product.

The sound of Off Track Betting is difficult to categorize, maybe nu-country/folk would cover it.  The first track "Fever Dream" has a definite New Mexican feel, while "Shoot Out the Stars" leans more towards traditional country.  There is definitely a unique sound happening here.  "The Dollar and the Dream" is available on his website for you to check out the more traditional side of him.  For "Lady of the Silver Spoon", you will have to get a copy of the disc. 

• www.nelsandrews.com 

This Reviewer's Rating: 4 / 5

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