King Fisher

Sweet Tea & Cigarettes

Uvalde transplants Val Link and Catlin Rutherford split the difference between 1990s alternative and blues-based rock. The former’s vocals drudge through STP and Candlebox-like effects on “Pest” and “Some Other Messiah,” then water down soul on “Indifference Bound” and “The Game.” Acoustic closer “As Nietzsche Said” feels equally estranged.

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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.