You could spend your childhood moving from country to country following the whims of the military as they uproot your family time and time again. Then settle down in Texas and start writing songs, singing your heart out, and winning over fans from Manchester to Marfa. Two things will be true. First, you will be the fortunate benefactor of many musical and cultural influences, and second, you will have lived the life of the incomparable Beth Williams. Her latest CD is In This Old House (Willow Creek). One might be quick to say that most anything Lloyd Maines touches becomes gold. Add the fact that this disc is produced by Lloyd Maines & Terri Hendrix and you might think it’s going to be a sensational project. Well, you’re right. You should know from the start that Williams’ talent is incredible and shines bright on this disc. Maines is a genius at making good sounds from mediocre talent, but there was no need for his magic wand on this project. Instead, Maines and Hendrix are masterful at presenting the reathtaking works of a true Texas treasure. Beth Williams writes of life’s simple pleasures, love’s aspirations, and spiritual enlightenment. She flavors her offerings with folk, blues, bluegrass, pop, country, and international tones. The Fleetwood Mac-ish “A Ladder I Can Climb” tells of a wish to just have a few more things go right, and the narratively introduced title cut tells of finding that love and comfort that eludes us all. And yes, the lady sings the blues as she cuts loose on “Big Bad Blues.” Beth Williams’ 1987 release, First Class is also available here, and keep checking back as we hope to have One Empty Chair available soon. Williams is a refreshing Texas talent with plenty to say, and she says it all quite well. Positive, reflective, and spiritual, Williams is a gem of a songwriter. True Texas music fans are flocking to venues all over Texas to hear this Mason, Texas mainstay. Pick up your copies and become the newest Beth Williams fan. You can buy them here, today, right now, for only $13.99!