Russell’s heroic and gnarled lower tenor gave character from the start to songs including Clint Black’s “Killin’ Time,” David Allen Coe’s “Long-haired Rednecks” and “The Ride,” the original “Saving Grace,” (which was co-written by Russell and the late guitarist Rhett Fisher who passed away in April).  The interplay of the lead guitarist’s stinging lines, Russell’s sure-rhythm and the bassist’s loping slyness amounted to a full-flavored belt of hard outlaw country with enough barrel and bite to snap you out of your early August heat torpor.

This is a band that, if justice and taste exists, should go places.  We just hope they stop in to our town several more times before the record companies come calling.