There’s no doubt that Chicago’s a stop on countless, country acts, tour schedules as the second city has solidified itself as a major country music market. As the city’s country market grew, bands began to spring up and make a local impact through explosive live shows that incorporated covers of mainstream country faves with the occasional original cut. Scott DuBose and the 101 Ranch is one of those bands. Earning praises for their live shows from the likes of US99, Mancow’s Morning Madhouse, etc… has made them one of Chicago’s must see live acts, so the natural progression brought them into the studio to cut an album. Cover songs never really impress me and DuBose includes a few of those on here including his version of Rascal Flatts, “Fast Cars and Freedom,” Seger’s, “Turn The Page,” and Brooks and Dunn/Montgomery Gentry’s, “The Last Thing I Do.” However, 5 originals make the cut, including three songs DuBose penned himself. Album op ener, “Better End Of The Deal,” is a two-steppin’ country song that will get your boot heels clickin’ on the dance floor, while closing the album are two more originals that show a depth to DuBose writing and singing as he slows things down a bit and chooses to show a softer side. “I Do,” features a lyric that focuses on love and how it can wash over you and change your life, while “6AM,” sees Scott backed mostly by an acoustic guitar perfectly describing the reasons to keep on keepin’ on in life despite the struggles you face. Overall, if this 8-track release proves one thing, it shows DuBose can indeed write and perform a solid country song whether it’s fast or slow paced and that is enough of a reason to check out Scott DuBose and the 101 Ranch’s debut album.