Hello friends, we've recently been the recipients of some honarable mentions and all-around compliments from some of our favorite bloggers. We in the Rainbird's camp are obviously very proud of the year we had and the album we put out, but here's a taste of what some other folks had to say.A Salty Salute - #1 Americana Record of the YearAmber Waves Of Twang - #52 Release of the YearDallas Observer - honorable mention - "best roots record of the year" and a highfive for AC's Steve EarlenessHouston Calling - #5 Album of the Year"I first caught Collins while in Austin a few years ago watching Tody Castillo and Arthur Yoria at an icehouse during SXSW. I was immediately impressed with his songs, which are often dark, depressing, and worldly–the perfect combination for alt-country music. With Roses Are Black, he’s crafted his masterpiece. The backing band, The Rainbirds, is superb as well." The Y! Radish (Yahoo) - #46 Album of the Year"Texas' own Austin Collins came out of nowhere this year with one of the best alt country releases to hit store shelves. The songwriter achieves a perfect combination of twang and grit with memorable melodies sweeping around everywhere. Roses Are Black is a hit from start to finish and I would be hard pressed to pick a favorite track. There are just too many."MOG.com - #10 Album of the YearPhew . . . all of this patting ourselves on the back is exhausting. Thanks to all of you for a great 2008. More good times to come in '09! Cheers. - Austin, Dylan and Craig