Bruce Smith has his van fine-tuned and packed for delivery on third LP ‘Til the Wheels Fall Off, even if it’s not clear where he’s headed. The local songsmith ranges all over the map, from gritty highway burners (“30 Days”) to bouncing, Paul Simon lyric-twisters (“Amanda and the Commander (Dance While You Got the Chance)” and throwback rockabilly hoppers (“Longbranch Inn”). He’s at his best when the wheel steadies though the marvelous “’59 Stratocaster” and growling sway of “Elizabeth & Spring.” He’s a natural, even if still looking for his own road.

***


This article appears in February 8 • 2019.

A note to readers: Bold and uncensored, The Austin Chronicle has been Austin’s independent news source for over 40 years, expressing the community’s political and environmental concerns and supporting its active cultural scene. Now more than ever, we need your support to continue supplying Austin with independent, free press. If real news is important to you, please consider making a donation of $5, $10 or whatever you can afford, to help keep our journalism on stands.

SUPPORT US

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.