Mike Schikora “Outlaw From The South” (LP)

Outlaw From The South by Mike Schikora marks his return to music after a twelve-year break, bringing raw authenticity to the country genre. Schikora’s album is rooted in the grit of rural life, with storytelling that draws on his own experiences outside mainstream Nashville. His sound has the weight of dusty rodeo rings and honky-tonk bars, revealing the influence of rugged, lived-in country.

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Much of this album’s character comes from Schikora’s collaboration with seasoned musicians. Key contributors include Michael Bonagura and Kathie Baillie of Baillie & The Boys, who add soulful harmonies and a haunting harmonica to several tracks, including “Last Rose of Summer.” The result is a blend of Schikora’s unpolished, grassroots style with the seasoned skill of country veterans. This mix creates an album that feels deeply rooted and genuine, enhanced but not overshadowed by his collaborators.

The album opens with the title track, “Outlaw From The South,” which captures Schikora’s return to the stage with defiant energy. Set against the backdrop of his Texas life, it’s a self-portrait that embodies his unfiltered approach, unpolished yet full of grit and emotion. Schikora makes no effort to adapt to today’s polished country sound, leaning instead into storytelling and simplicity, qualities that give this album a unique charm.

A notable track, “These Are The Good Old Days,” epitomizes Schikora’s appreciation for the quiet moments. Supported by the talents of drummer Fred Eltringham, the song embodies a sense of time standing still, with a slow and steady rhythm that complements Schikora’s unhurried vocals. The arrangement reflects the simplicity and strength of rural life, making it one of the album’s more evocative moments.

Schikora also takes a few reflective detours, as seen in the tender ballad “You’re My Angel.” Stripped of pretension, it’s a sincere love song that’s more heartfelt than slickly romantic, showcasing Schikora’s ability to connect with his audience on a personal level. However, not all tracks carry the same impact; some songs, while genuine, occasionally feel limited by Schikora’s straightforward delivery and lack the lyrical depth of his best work.

One of the standout moments is “It Ain’t Whiskey Til It Rains.” This song reimagines a classic country theme with a thoughtful, melancholic twist, speaking to the duality of sorrow and solace. The lyricism here reflects the introspection that makes Schikora’s work resonate beyond typical country heartbreak songs. Similarly, “You Do Me Wrong” features a road-ready rhythm that captures a sense of isolation and longing, evoking images of empty highways and regret.

Outlaw From The South doesn’t cater to Nashville’s mainstream trends; rather, it’s a refreshingly grounded piece for listeners who prefer country with raw edges. In “Waitin’ Out A Storm,” Schikora explores resilience and survival, pairing his weathered vocals with a slow-burning melody that builds, like thunder rolling in. This is echoed in the album’s closer, “Last Rose of Summer,” which feels like a quiet, reflective farewell, emphasizing beauty amid change.

Ultimately, Outlaw From The South is a reflection of Schikora’s life experiences, wrapped in honest yet gritty storytelling. Schikora’s style may lack the polish of radio-friendly country, yet it offers something rare in today’s music landscape: sincerity. This album is for those who value depth over gloss, showing that Schikora’s hiatus hasn’t dulled his authenticity but rather deepened his connection to his roots.

Mark Druery