90's Hit Parade #36

The Drive-By Truckers - Late for Church

Back in 1998, Patterson Hood and Mike Cooley hadn't yet developed into the great songwriters they would become (they hit their mark with 2000's Southern Rock Opera). Fortunately, they had a secret weapon in bassist Adam Howell, who contributed this beautiful little tune to their debut album. A classic slacker anthem set in the milieu of gorgeous Appalachian folk music, perfect for sitting on the porch eatin' boiled peanuts and drinking beer on a lazy Sunday afternoon. And when the harmonies kick in on the "I am an angel" chorus...damn, you just never heard anything so beautiful. I probably won't get a second entry up this week, maybe I'll double up next week.