Robert Earl Keen’s first studio album in four years, The Rose Hotel (Lost Highway), continues to gain critical praise by reaching number one on the AMA Americana Radio Airplay chart on November 2. Keen has been busy supporting the album with an appearance on Imus in the Morning and a very special acoustic tour with Todd Snider and Bruce Robinson that wraps up on November 8. Keen will be on tour with his full band through the remainder of the year and in 2010.

The Rose Hotel is a collection of 11 songs, including covers of Townes Van Zandt’s “Flying Shoes”, Greg Brown’s “Laughing River” (a duet with Brown) and an homage to another Americana legend, former Band drummer Levon Helm on “The Man Behind The Drums.” The Rose Hotel was produced by acclaimed producer, Lloyd Maines.

Below is what the press has had to say thus far:

”Top-notch tunesmiths are as plentiful as tumbleweed in Texas, and Americana veteran Robert Earl Keen is one of the best.” – USA Today

“Creating a chorus that’s so obvious, so contagious, so pleasurable that people want to sing along is a rare pop-music talent, and he’s got it.” – Paste

“Essentially, The Rose Hotel is one of those rare albums where every track can be recommended and the entire experience is superb...”
- (8 out of 10) - Blurt On Line

“…Keen’s on-point throughout Hotel, making it an establishment fans will eagerly frequent.” - Fort Worth Star-Telegram

“Country music can keep Kenny Chesney, but Robert Earl Keen is for all of us.” - Oregonian

“Robert Earl Keen is best known for his story songs and witty lyrical lines, but his first studio album in four years is most noteworthy for its groove. You’re gonna want to request a late check-out from this ‘Hotel.’”
- Grade A, Austin American Statesman