Review: The Western Flyers WILD BLUE YONDER

The Western Flyers
WILD BLUE YONDER
Versa Tone Records
4.5 stars
Fresh take on a classic American art form
Sounding like the energetic authentic Western Swing version of the Star Wars cantina band, this new band manage to combine Western Swing, hot jazz, cowboy songs and fantastic fiddle tunes into a truly unique country offering. Blending the classic with the new, this band, comprised of guitarist Joe McKenzie, National Swing Fiddle Champion Katie Glassman and upright bassist Gavin Kelso puts a new spin on the classic with an enjoyable groove which instantly brings to mind a packed 1940’s Texas saloon just off the trail. These three accomplished musicians, each with a wealth of experience, combine to produce a version of vintage Western swing which I found particularly charming. It’s clear to see why these three have come together and I welcome the corroboration which is difficult to see being negatively received by die-hard traditionalists and newbies to country-alike. Of particular note in the generous 36 minute, 13 track album is the welcoming, upbeat and aptly named You’re From Texas and the lively Sweet Georgia Brown. Definitely a band to watch out for – watch this space! Michael Locke
www.thewesternflyers.com