The Lone Star state is huge, approximately three-and-a-half times the size of the UK, so it follows that a wide spectrum of sounds and musical styles thrive within its mighty borders. The 50 tracks across these CDs, all of either a 50s or 60s vintage, take the listener on a whistle-stop thrill ride through country, rockabilly, Western swing and Tex-Mex two-steps.
We board the bus at Lubbock in the north-west of the state, where we find The Crickets on a quest of their own (Looking For Someone To Love) and, before too long, we’re visiting Roy Orbison, who’s already found his (the rollicking You’re My Baby). There are other familiar names along the way (The Big Bopper’s buzz guitar bulldozing of White Lightning is leaner and tougher than George Jones’ version), but it’s the less celebrated inhabitants who provide the most interesting points of call.
Vern Pullens cuts a riotous rockabilly rug, despite parental disapproval (Mama Don’t Allow No Boppin’); Milton Allen reveals himself as the most aloof redneck in the barn (Don’t Bug Me Baby); and Sid King displays a serious case of the hillbilly hots (Purr Kitty Purr). A deliciously DIY ethic permeates throughout: rough around the edges and all the better for it.
