Hank Williams III --

Risin’ Outlaw

(Curb)

There are parts of his grandson’s debut album when you could swear you are in the presence of Hank Williams Sr, and if you know anything about country music, you know that’s as high a compliment as you can pay any roots music performer.

But Hank III’s isn’t a novelty tribute act by any means-- the young man has his granpappy’s twangy voice but his semi-contemporary approach (from the Dylanish word-rap "You’re the Reason" to the evocative "Thunderstorms and Neon Signs") takes its own sweet, vinegary turns throughout this disc. Tracks like the live recording of "Why Don’t You Leave Me Alone" and the hauntingly lo-fi "Blue Devil" -- blue yodel and all-- show the artist reinforcing his blood ties through sound while distancing himself from the rest of the male hats on country radio.

Eccentric and homegrown at the same time, this is memorable debut no matter what the artist’s name is.

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