Do you think of Chicago when you think of country? You should. Too Late to Pray: Defiant Chicago Roots is a compilation album from Chicago’s Bloodshot Records, and if you think you don’t like country music, this is the album you should listen to before you say so; something on it is bound to change your mind. Bloodshot Records’ first album, released 25 years ago, was also a compilation of Chicago country, so they know the scene and the artists within it. They’ve sifted through the spectrum of country subgenres and put together a satisfying smorgasbord of songs. The artists’ styles range from honky-tonk to ‘90s revival and pared-down bluegrass, with influences from every shelf in the record store. With both original songs and covers of classics from outside the genre like “Gotta Have My Baby Back” and “Head Over Heels,” Too Late to Pray offers listeners a look at the diversity of modern country music on the whole and a window into the Chicago roots scene. Whether you’re a country fan or a country critic, there’s something on it for you.
