Hot on the heels of Notorious, its second album for Atlantic Records, Confederate Railroad has wasted no time putting together a third disc, When and Where, releasing it in time for the summer concert season.
   When and Where follows the tried-and-true formula that spelled success for the Railroad's previous efforts, and fans will not be disappointed. Mixing ballads and inventive tounge-in-cheek numbers When and Where will continue to add hit songs to the group's resume.
   In the vein of "When and Where," the album's first single and title cut, "Bill's Laundromat, Bar and Grill" is a raucous, good-time song about an actual joint in Arkansas. The original title, by the way, was shortened from "Bill's Honky Tonk Pickin', Line Dance Kickin', Razorback Stickin' Barbeque Chicken, Laundromat Bar and Grill."
   Up-and-coming star Kenny Chesney contributes the ballad "When He Was My Age" to the Railroad's repertoire, and "Sounds of Home," "Right Track Wrong Train" and "See Ya" add additional flavor and can't-miss hits to the ballad lineup.
   "Toss a Little Bone" is a sure-fire hit as a blue-collar anthem to the hard-working, underpaid backbone of America's labor force.
   One highlight in particular is the final cut, a Delbert McClinton tune, "My Baby's Lovin'," that the ensemble performs with a raw edge and gutsy vocals.
   If Confederate Railroad's two previous albums had not been such standout efforts When and Where would rise above and beyond all expectations. As it stands, it compliments the group's previous work and with time may also stand on its own merit.

-Charlton Wiggins