Rumor has it that gravelly-voiced Chuck Ragan left influential Florida post-hardcore foursome Hot Water Music to live on a farm and drive a tractor. Whenever he really ended up, he couldn't stay away for music for long.

Since 2007, Ragan has released a series of stripped down country/folk records that couldn't be further removed from the work of his prior band. His first solo record, the live "Los Feliz," featured only acoustic guitar, harmonica, and his gruff voice.

"Gold Country" expands the sonic palette, but maintains the back porch feel. Ragan's songwriting is strong throughout, whether it's paired with Appalachian bluegrass ("Glory"), pounding chords and fiddle ("Done and Done"), or a full band ("For Goodness Sake"). Ragan has successful found a way to turn inward and turn the volume down, without losing any of the power or urgency of his former Hot Water Music self.