Johnny Dango & the Stillwater Pioneers

Let’s Go Pioneering!

The Pioneers’ debut balances the playful and sincere amid easy back-porch jams, from the swinging hootenanny of “Trouble All My Life” to the dark drawl of “Going Home.” “Ain’t Gonna Worry” touches on the Gourds’ illustrious wordplay, and “Used to Be” similarly creeks resistingly against middle age. The local quintet’s at its best on “1492,” with harmonica and banjo matching the weary, biting lyrics.

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This article appears in January 11 • 2008.

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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.