Country/Review The Mack Brothers - Southern Skies

John and Matthew Mackara are brothers, musicians and podcasters. They were the principal creators/songwriters for "The 1940s," and now are off on their own to make music as "The Mack Brothers."

With their humorous and imaginative exploration of the world of country music, The Mack Brothers thoroughly inhabit the personas of Slim Crawford and Hackett Joes on their album “Southern Skies.” Assuming these personas, they write from the viewpoints of these fictitious artists as they examine Southern life and experiences. This innovative strategy gives the project a dimension of realism and narrative that sets it apart in the current country landscape.

The brothers' first endeavor, an experimental effort, quickly turned into a full-length country record when they discovered how much fun they were having creating "Country Woman." The album's remainder, which combines conventional country themes with contemporary twists, is characterized by the track's contagious intensity and rustic appeal. “Southern Skies” is full of songs that celebrate love, life, and Southern pride while keeping a sense of fun and lightheartedness, from the twangy guitars to the deep harmonies.

The brothers' talent to write distinctive, catchy songs is demonstrated by songs like "Drinkin' in Work" and "That'll Do," while more sentimental pieces like "Take a Ride" contemplate life's little joys. Their music has a uniquely Southern feel while managing to combine honesty, comedy, and nostalgia in just the right amounts.

All things considered, “Southern Skies” is a lighthearted and delightful album that maintains The Mack Brothers' reputation for great songwriting without taking themselves too seriously. The concept was inspired by enjoyment, and from the very first note to the very last, that happiness is contagious.