(Whole Note) www.rgstark.com

Texas troubadour R.G. Stark—the initials stand for “receiving genius,” a nod to his years spent toiling in a warehouse—chronicles his border-state life with such aplomb that it’s a wonder he hasn’t been picked up on yet by the legions of Guy Clark and Townes Van Zandt acolytes. In fact, Not Crazy Tonight, recorded in Austin with Ron Flynt (20/20, the Bluehearts) as co-producer, bassist and keyboardist, and with guests including pedal steel whiz Neil Flanz and guitarist Scrappy Jud Newcomb, is one of those records that could only come from the Lone Star state. From studies of border-crossings (the twangy, sunbaked “Coyote”) and outlaws (the Tex-Mex-flavored “Narcocorrido Nuevo Laredo”) to affairs of the heart (the ‘50s-sounding “Secret Girl,” which showcases Stark’s Roy Orbison-esque vocals), Stark’s eye for lyric detail and ear for musical nuance is striking indeed.

Standout Tracks: “Coyote,” “Secret Girl” FRED MILLS