Best Local Country Act

Inside Straight

If you think the region's country scene is in decline, then you didn't see the intense voting for this year's Best Local Country Act. Thanks to a constant touring schedule, Inside Straight take home the prize. Fronted by keyboardist Phil Bertoni, this North Worcester County band mix the new with the old (while throwing in the hits, some oldies, a shot of the blues, and even some polkas). The group's first release, Bertoni's "One More," hails from the Kris Kristofferson school of songwriting, grabbing your soul at 2 a.m. Formed in 1995 and featuring Tokyo-born guitarist Shige Yoshida, bassist Bob Schultze, and Canadian-made drummer Jim Stanton, Inside Straight have captured numerous Massachusetts Country Music Awards Association nominations. Bertoni took home the trophy for "Most Promising Male Vocalist" in 1998 and "Keyboard Player of the Year" in 1999. Humor plays a key role in their performances, and their newsletter isn't afraid to serve as entertainment as well. They're proud to call themselves jokers. Since they've received their MCMAA nominations, they're in radio rotation, get unlimited refills at Denny's, and haven't been changed by fame. (If you doubt this, they suggest you ask their ex-wives!) Sounds like they've got the recipe for country-music success -- don't you want to be on their side?

-- Brian Goslow