Sean Mencher
(Goofin’)
Guitarist for Austin’s high-octane rockabilly trio High Noon, as well as sideman for a long list of notable roots rockers like Ronnie Dawson, Wayne “the Train” Hancock, and Rosie Flores, Sean Mencher sprouts music roots deeper than most. That said, his self-titled solo debut is surprising for the range of styles he embraces, not only the expected hiccuping rockabilly, but the blues, Tex-Mex, country, swing, even accordion-driven Cajun. What’s not unexpected is the quality of the playing. His fivepiece combo, subtly augmented by the occasional trumpet and fiddle, is all aces. The only area Mencher is lacking in is the vocal department, occasionally reaching for notes he cannot hit or attempting to croon when he’s not up to the required subtlety. There’s enough verve and variety here that some might overlook those limitations, while discriminating tastes may find them a barrier to truly enjoying Mencher’s brand of jive and bop.
This article appears in February 9 • 2007.