Award-winning songwriter and POCO bass player Jack Sundrud returns to the production chair for the sophomore effort by his friend and sometimes writing partner, Keith Miles. The results go beyond expectations and enlightens on a diversity of styles from Americana folk, big band, olde time swing and country crooner. The results are as eclectic as they are enjoyable. The CD leads off with a determined "Road I'm On" and displays an artist confident in the direction he's heading in. The cover of the classic "Samson and Delilah" might be the strongest track here bolstered by a powerful dose of blues harp.

"Iola" - originally recorded by Sundrud's Great Plains co-written by him, Miles and another associate - is a plaintive homage to the fragility of the heartland and the life of the family farmer. Another co-write with Jack is "The South" which explores just how deep the roots go when one is raised below the Mason-Dixon line. Beyond The Headlights is a fine second effort from the talented Miles that's loaded with artistry, Hammond organ, fiddles & horns - that should help him get a few mores miles down the road in style.

• Info: -- USA/TN 2009: www.keithmiles.com (Richard J. Lynch/Kweevak.com)