BlackHawk is the self-titled debut from the trio of ex-Outlaws Henry Paul, Dave Robbins, and Van Stephenson. Robbins and Stephenson are best known for their songwriting collaboration with Restless Heart, Poco, and Eric Clapton. On BlackHawk, Robbins and Stephenson continue to use the same formula that earned them success with a variety of songs about breaking up and leaving town. Despite the heartbreaking themes, the album is musically uplifting.

Don't be fooled by the country rock sounds of their first single and video "Good-bye Says it All," whose harmonies may lead listeners to believe The Eagles have finally reunited. Though country at heart, BlackHawk succeeds in expanding the parameters of their roots with a variety of instruments including strings, mandolins, fiddles, and pianos that give the album an overall rustic taint. Songs like "I Sure Can Smell the Rain" embody both the traditional country sound, with its pedal steel, as well as a contemporary feel with its mandolin, acoustic guitar, and strings.

"I painted heaven, but it sure loks like hell," sings Paul over the sweet mandolin melody of "That's Just About Right." The track has a commercial appeal to it, as does the easy-going beat of "Down in Flames," which examines the hardships of being trapped in a small town. Both songs would make worthy follow-ups to "Good-bye Says it All," which should ensure BlackHawk some more air time.

BlackHawk may be a driving force behind country's new found popularity, helping to reshape the image we have of twangy guitars and vocals of the past.

Reviewer:  Don Kroeller Jr., courtesy of Flash Magazine.