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by
Doug Freeman
Diggin’ in his heels at 61, the self-professed “King of Hillbilly Rock & Roll” takes a turn toward the blues. Emery’s voice is caustic and tough, settling perfectly into the 12 originals, songs like “Prison Bound” and “Burn That Railroad Down” feeling lived in and raw. Jamming boogies (“All Right Blues,” “Bootlegger Man”) don’t square as well, but the album winds like a late-night locomotive.
This article appears in February 8 • 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. More by Doug Freeman