The track I used on today’s Austin Music Minute from Mayeux and Broussard‘s 2012 release While the Gittin’s Good (and yes, indeed, that is spelled with an “i”) is the unflinchingly irreverent”Hollow Ground,” which I love, but the one I first heard and got completely hooked on was the swaggering and unapologetic “Sky High Ryder.” Opening with some solid western guitar riffs, you soon hear Tate Mayeux searing through with his raspy, drawn-out twang defiantly sneering,”Why don’t you go and find yourself?” This would be the not-safe-for-television alt.-country, an uncensored Americana getting in your face and not about to back down. Perfect for those of us who prefer to keep it real.
Mayeux and lead guitarist Brian Broussard started writing songs a couple of summers ago, then brought Matt Wiley on lap steel, bassist Misha Ben-David and drummer Taylor Englert on board for local gigs and touring throughout Texas. They delve headfirst into a dirty country and roots rough-edged revelry soaked to the core with blues and even a touch of rockabilly sneaking in. Ain’t nothin’ wrong with that.
Mayeux and Broussard are doing a country happy hour show tonight at The Sahara Lounge, 1413 Webberville Rd., from 7 to 9 p.m. This is something you definitely need to check out. But I’d recommend whiskey or bourbon over beer for this one. Recommended.
