Chuck Prophet

Chuck Prophet is an Americana lifer. Back in the Paisley Underground '80s, he slung guitar for scruffy roots rockers Green On Red. And since 1990, Prophet has been crafting little-heard records for little-known labels like China and Cooking Vinyl while being sought after by such diverse acts as Cake, Kelly Willis and the Mr. T Experience. Last year, he delivered the majestic No Other Love(New West). Masterfully mixing rock, country, blues and soul into twisted character studies and heart-baring tales, Prophet created one of 2002's finest discs. Whether it's the achingly beautiful title track, the eerie folk-funk of "That's How Much I Need Your Love" or the rambunctious Tom Petty-via-Highway 61 "Run Primo Run," this stellar effort offers a wealth of rough-hewn gems. Live, Prophet's road-tested charm and ragged ferocity never fail to attract more disciples to his flock.