Smokey Wilson ”BACK TO THE ROADHOUSE” ©2008 Texmuse Review by Lucky Boyd Let’s face it, Smokey Wilson isn’t 29 years old, chasing the ever-elusive record contract while touring around with all the girls chasing his tight jeans. Smokey is seasoned. Having said that, you might expect the music to be middle-aged and mediocre; just the next blurb from another barstool baritone. Well, that’s where you would be wrong. From the opening cut, it’s easy to hear that Wilson can still kick it with the best out there, be it the veterans or the up-and-comers. The co-write with fellow MTM member Steve Brooks, “I’m Cheap” is as radio ready as anything on the Texas charts today. While Smokey will tell you he’s just not up for a superstar career right now (there are cows to feed, etc.) this album should bring Wilson his due. Only eight cuts on this one, but that’s all Wilson needs to make you his newest fan. If I’m not mistaken, the top two selling albums of all time both had only eight cuts. Nonetheless, you’ll be completely entertained by this album. The production is fantastic, the arrangements are refreshing, and Wilson gives the performance of his life. This is far and away Wilson’s best work to date. If this doesn’t make him 29 again and get the girls chasing his jeans, I don’t know what will. One note to Smokey: “Big fat fox tails the whole way, baby!” ”COUNTRY MUSIC BOOGIEMAN” Man, this is some of Smokey’s early stuff and it’s amazing to hear him in a totally different place and time. If you’re a Smokey fan, you must have this album. “WHITE MAN’S BLUES” ©2004 Texmuse Wilson releases another award worthy album, garnering a Texas Music Award nomination for Producer of the Year for Billy High’s production of this 2004 release. Highlights include the haunting “Stepping Stone,” a great duet with Jarrod Birmingham on “Texas Dance Hall,” and the raucous title cut. The album is Smokey’s fun-loving, kick-it-up release and a favorite with fans. Previous notes Cuero, Texas, has sent us Smokey Wilson. This hard-working Texan was voted 2003 MyTexasMusic’s Entertainer of the Year and hosts his now-famous “Party In The Pasture” each summer at his 400 acre ranch near Cuero. Texas music often crosses into more than one genre while keeping its feet on one solid foundation. Never has that been more evident than on Smokey Wilson’s “TEXAS SATURDAY NIGHT” (Texmuse). You’ll find Texas swing in the title cut, Louisiana swing in “Cajun Saturday Night,” comfortable Texas blues on “Right To Sing The Blues,” and down-home rockabilly on “Texas Bitch.” Wilson is quite the gentleman cowboy, but he gives his Texas-sized warning to those who threaten American freedom on “Cowboy In The White House” which reminds aggressors that our nation’s president is a Texan. While excelling as a great storyteller, Wilson’s soothing voice seems right at home even on the Spanish-styled “Moon Over Terlingua.” This Steve Starnes production is a must-buy for Texas music fans. There’s something for everyone on this disc, but for true Texas music fans, you’ll find Wilson’s debut offering a gem that you’ll be playing with the repeat button on. Smokey Wilson’s live performances are a treasure as well. His rapport with the audience is inviting and his delivery is self-assured and professional. Whether live or via this CD, Smokey Wilson is a Texas joy and a great listen.