DALE WATSON & HIS LONESTARS
El Rancho Azul
Red House Records
On Dale Waton’s latest album, the pompadoured honky-tonker wastes little time in displaying the honesty that’s earned him the nickname “The Real Deal.” In the album’s opening line, he sings, “I lie when I drink, and I drink a lot.” As usual, Watson proudly plays the time-tested sounds of what many would consider retro country. But keen, humorous songwriting and an increasingly lively delivery keep this collection from being anything but freshly brewed and free of old sawdust. In fact, this is Watson’s quickest-stepping record in a while. The song titles, at least to a point, let one know what’s in store before even pushing “play.” “I Hate to Drink Alone,” “I Drink to Remember,” and “Drink Drink Drink” each line-up the musical shots of Mezcal to grin-rendering effect. Meanwhile, “We’re Going to Get Married,” the tear-inducing “Daughter’s Wedding Song,” and “Give Me More Kisses” show a little tenderness, and the ultra-catchy “Quick Quick Slow Slow,” “Slow Quick Quick,” and “Cowboy Boots” all find Watson on sure footing as an authoritative, tattooed dance instructor. When it comes to country music tailor made for lovin, dancin’, and a hell of a lot of boozin’, Watson’s your man — and El Rancho Azul is the man at his best. — KELLY DEARMORE
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