The death of his father and birth of a son contextualizes Josh Abbott’s triumphant fifth LP. Powered by a well-oiled septet, its opening title track signals palpable evolution beyond the Red Dirt circuit, the frontman’s easy drawl and Austin Davis’ banjo providing fascinating interplay with Rob Mathes’ string quartet arrangements. “Heartbeatin'” melds that same banjo with Memphis horn swagger over a ragtime rhythm. Abbott expands grooves in all directions, with “Girl Down in Texas” and “Whiskey Tango Foxtrot” keeping the hometown crowds kicking.

***.5

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This article appears in August 18 • 2017.

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Doug Freeman has been writing for the Austin Chronicle since 2007, covering the arts and music scene in the city. He is originally from Virginia and earned his Masters Degree from the University of Texas. He is also co-editor of The Austin Chronicle Music Anthology, published by UT Press.