Okay here we go again. Another week, another set of tunes, another drink. I spent some time at the office today listening to music while I worked in an attempt to figure out which album or artist I was going to write about next. The dialogue in my head went back and forth between a few choices but ultimately Flatland Cavalry won out.
The setup today is a little different. Rather than use the Bluetooth speaker again I’ve got my phone plugged into my Bose Sound Wave. No, that’s not a radio for old folks. I’ve got a good sized CD collection and wanted a CD player that would put out some high quality tunes. One of these days I’ll go down the whole CD collection rabbit hole but I don’t feel like explaining some of my musical choices just yet. So the picture below is my audio setup, except swap the laptop for the phone in my hand that took the picture.
This week’s listening experience is being augmented by one of Ranger Creek’s Texas Bourbon Barrel Series beers called “Wee Heavy”. Made here in San Antonio at the Ranger Creek Brewstillery (brewery and distillery), this bad boy boasts a ABV of 11.9% and tastes a hell of a lot like Samoas. Yes, like the girl scout cookies. When I went to Specs I figured I better pick something local to help this write up along and I couldn’t have chosen better than a Ranger Creek product. Check them out whenever you get the chance.
Now what can I say about Flatland Cavalry? Well first of all, I’m just listening to their tracks on random. This isn’t like last week’s post where I was hearing an album for the first time. I’m a big time Flatlander (is that what they call their fans? If not, they should) and have listened to their full length album dozens of times. These guys are borderline transcendent songwriters that don’t over do it on the instrumentals. Sure they’re super talented, but it’s clear they know that their strength is in the stories they weave through the one-of-a-kind twang of their front man Cleto Cordero. Check him out singing one of my favorite tracks acoustic below.
You seriously can’t go wrong with a single one of their songs. In a raw mood and dealing with some heartache? “February Snow” is what the doctor ordered. Missing an ex or wondering what might have happened if you hadn’t screwed things up? “A Life Where we Work Out” ought to set you straight. Headed back to your hometown for a weekend with the boys? “Stompin’ Grounds” will probably sound a lot like the days in front of you.
I think you get the point. Flatland Cavalry writes songs about things we can all relate to and delivers them in a unique style that is head and shoulders above most of their peers in the Texas country scene today. At least that’s my personal opinion, but I’m a sucker for quality writing. And I’ve written my fair share of songs, so I know what a challenge it is to make the words and music meld so seamlessly like they do.
Cover of Flatland’s most recent album “Humble Folks” available on itunes here and in stores.
Favorite 3 tracks:
February Snow
Tall City Blues (man I can relate to this one…)
No Shade of Green
Make sure to check out their tour dates so you can see them when they’re in a dancehall near you. I guarantee you they’ll be selling out shows before they know it, so catch them while you can. If you haven’t heard of them before, check them out and pick up their album “Humble Folks”.
Questions or comments about Flatland Cavalry or Texas music in general? Social media will get you a damn-near immediate response, so contact us on twitter or instagram @westboundsoul or leave a comment below.
