Marti Brom - Sings Heartache Numbers

Between the rockabilly of "Three Hearts Later" and the Patsy Cline-flavored "Four Walls," Marti Brom is a proud throwback to yesterday. She doesn't so much embrace the image of "old-style" country singer as flaunt it. The cover of Sings Heartache Numbers shows a big-eyed, bejeweled Brom, her hands and head resting on a whisky bottle that says "Marti." Brom is joined by a handful of fine musicians, including guitarist Levi Mullen and steel guitarist Dickie Overby, for a traditional country set. "Traditional" in this case means a hardcore country sound complete with whining steel and a waltz beat. Numbers is an enjoyable, well-executed album.