Sometimes, as we prowl through those midnight woods, amidst the scratch and growl of otherworldly creatures that populate our rocky, wild habitats, we forget to stop and watch the sun rise - or even bid it farewell without shattering all the bulbs in the joint with a blast of distorted decibels. What I'm trying to imply here is that even the most steadfast metal stallion spins that gain knob counter clockwise from time to time, and kicks back on the porch with a tweed amp and a cold one to greet the day or let it lay to rest.

That is where THE SUPERSUCKERS find themselves on their latest release "Holdin' the Bag" - deep in the outback, amidst the dust of a hundred horses where the tumbleweeds race across the blood-red scenery and the batwing doors never tire swinging...you can almost hear the clacking of the spores. (Just give "Man On A Mission" a listen to set the mood.) However, they did not come for a fistful of dollars or a couple more...these fellas have their own blend of perky menace in store for this frontier.

One thing is solemnly clear; "Holdin' the Bag" is not to be taken too seriously. The playful lyrics and the band's frivolous attitude make it for an easy, light-hearted listen...with a slightly barbecued aftertaste. Catchy tracks such as "High and Outside", "Let's Bounce" and "Jibber Jabber" are simple feel good songs fresh from a jukebox in Midwestern diner and are sure to receive a couple of repeat plays - especially after a few beers.

Although THE SUPERSUCKERS do have a rather giddy approach to their songwriting, it does not make "Holdin' the Bag" any less of a respectable record. Contrary to first impressions - or the reputation set by some of the songs from the group's catalogue - this is a finely crafted offering. Although it is doubtful that it will become a Country classic, it nonetheless bares all the characteristics - sans the whisky soaked tears - which make it worthy of a place in the genres ranks. If you look beyond the awkwardness of the bizarre juxtaposition between the melodic traits and the lyrical content, you will find that what THE SUPERSUCKERS have managed to do here is approach the most common of topics covered in such genres as Blues, Country and Rock 'n' Roll, and present them from a fresh, carefree point of view. Tracks like "This Life...With You" and "I Can't Cry" are prime examples of this, for they achieve the musical poignancy of fine Country songs whilst covering the woeful subject matter in a reassuring manner. The latter song is a true highlight of the record, as Lydia Loveless brings a Patty Griffin inspired, heartfelt, yet sharp sensibility for a genuinely inspired duet with the rogue vocalist Eddie Spaghetti.

Overall, it is a good record, but it might prove a bit too whimsical for some. Nevertheless, "Holdin' the Bag" features some marvellous compositions and top-notch instrumentation - the tightness of this band is truly remarkable and the great production allows you to appreciate every slide of the bottleneck. Given the curious nature of this record it is difficult to categorise it, but I suppose the bottom line is this (and I'm improvising here); if you're a fan of Tom Keifer but always wished to see what would happen he'd had one too many at a saloon with Quentin Tarantino, then "Holdin' the Bag" would probably be the soundtrack to that jolly outcome.Overall: 7