I made a discovery recently, something Canadian country fans have known about for the last few years. His name is Julian Austin, the new CD is titled "Back In You Life," and American country fans are missing out.

The first indication that I was in for a treat from the CD came by simply reading the insert. The norm seems to be 10 to 12 songs on an album nowadays, so imagine my surprise to see fourteen listed here. Then I realized all but one were written or co-written by Julian himself. How much talent can one bad boy turned good old boy have? Let me tell you, he has plenty. Here's a little description of some of the tracks that really stand out.

Back In Your Life - I understand this to be the first release from the cd. It's a great tune about a man leaving his little hometown to chase his dreams, then realizes he misses the love he left behind.

Take The Money And Run - Title sound familiar? It's the old Steve Miller hit, with a country twist. The first version was great, and so is the second.

Forever Loving You- Julian got married recently. This sweet love song was obviously inspired by his new wife. Being a sucker for "happy ever after" songs, I just love this one.

Should Be Over You - How long does it take to mend a broken heart? "After the heartache and tears, lonely and hurting, one night stands and drinking ain't working, and missing you has near killed me a time or two, then after that I should be over you."

Cause He Ain't Here - Julian describes this one as autobiographical. He admits he didn't always treat his partners like he should have. That's why I like this one... it's honest. "Take a chance, walk out the door, go find the one you've been waiting for, cause he ain't here".

She's Through - He describes a woman tired of finding the wrong men. She's been lied to, "put down and stood up", but she's holding on to the dream of finding Mr. Right.

Better Think Twice - Interesting song. A man comes home after cheating again, and is met by his wife with a pistol in her hand. You'll have to listen to the song to find out how it ends.

Lying To Myself - He's trying to convince himself, unsuccessfully, that he'll get over his ex. He sounds a bit like Tracy Lawrence on this one. It's a good song,

Here's the full song list:

1. Back In Your Life
2. Take The Money And Run
3. Real Love
4. Forever Loving You
5. Should Be Over You
6. Bye Bye Bye
7. Cause He Ain't Here
8. She's Through
9. Good At Bein' Bad
10. Better Think Twice
11. Doesn't Take A fool
12. Lying To Myself
13. My Reason For Living Is You
14. Holdin' On For Eight

Audio Clips courtesy The Julian Austin Homepage