Billy Pilgrim - Billy Pilgrim (1994)

Occasionally known as "the Indigo Boys," Andrew Hyra and Kristian Bush comprise Billy Pilgrim. Come on, the shoe fits -- two guys from Georgia with acoustic guitars playing melodic folk/rock songs filled with smooth harmonies and alternating lead vocals. Toss in Atlanta studio icon Don McCollister, who handles the bulk of the production duties on this debut, and the Indigo Girls' Emily Saliers on background vocals, and the comparisons stretch on for days. But, somehow these guys manage to carve out a place of their own. Although this album should not necessarily be on your top ten must have list, it is an enjoyable collection of tunes with a few really fine pieces. Billy Pilgrim's rock side shoots right out of the gate with the incredibly catchy "Get Me out of Here" and "Insomniac." These are the kind of songs adult alternative radio stations should wear out their discs from spinning. On the folkier side of town, "Halfway Home" and "Mama Says" are beautifully thoughtful, mellow compositions, showing a balanced sense of artistry. Billy Pilgrim is definitely worth a listen. © Kelly McCartney /TiVo