After a quick turn in Nashville, Rob Baird returned to Texas to set up in Austin and get back to basics. The Memphis native’s third album thus starts with the bluesy, swaggering declaration of “Ain’t Nobody Got a Hold on Me.” Unlike 2012’s I Swear It’s the Truth, Baird ranges more adventurous and looser, though still capable of sharp polished melodies like “Mercy Me” and “Oklahoma.” A restlessness in sound and sentiment drives Wrong Side of the River, lending it a transitional feel that doesn’t quite cohere even as it documents Baird finding a more honest and natural voice. At his best, the burning “Run of Good Luck” and softer “When I Go” finds the singer delivering heavy punches, but his rolls into more raucous Texas country with “Mississippi Moon” and the dark moan of the title track don’t do justice to his obvious songwriting talent.

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This article appears in June 10 • 2016.

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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.