Wayne’s latest effort, Tulsa - his third for Bloodshot Records and first studio record since 2001, is a testament to the version of America he loves; one decorated with lonesome desert highways, cheap hotels, dancehalls, and lost loves along the way. Wayne Hancock personifies the two great American inventions of jazz and country and creates his own style of uncompromising western swing; as much Gershwin as Hank; equal parts Art Blakey and Bob Wills.
Swing Time is Wayne’s second release for Bloodshot Records, and it was recorded live over a few nights where he is most at home: the stage of Austin’s fabled roadhouse extraordinaire The Continental Club. Produced by Lloyd Maines and Wayne himself, the release also features appearances by Paul Skelton, Dave Biller, Eddie Rivers, Rick Ramirez, Dan Enriquez, Bob "Texaco" Stafford, and Rebecca Snow.
A-Town Blues, Wayne's first release with Bloodshot Records. Highlights range from a couple of originals that sound like long-lost Hank Williams classics ("Sands of Time," "Route 23") to revived chestnuts including Jimmie Rodgers's "California Blues," and Fats Waller's "Viper". In Wayne's own words: "If you like music that moves and the trash on the radio can't satisfy your wanderlust then try this CD and burn a thousand miles."
Wild, Free and Reckless, is yet another haunting memory of vintage American sounds as Wayne lays down his patented brand of "Juke Joint Swing." Recorded in San Marcos, Texas for ARK21 records in only 16 hours this blend of Honky Tonk, Jumpin' Jazz, Rockabilly and Big Band Swing make this a must have CD for anyone who desires listening to good music that is played as it should be - without compromise, and from the soul.
That's What Daddy Wants, another Wayne classic. As you listen to these songs about barrooms, bedrooms, and badlands, you find yourself thinking not about the history of the bygone Honky-Tonk and Rockabilly styles that Hancock draws on, but about "that gal with the blue dress on" and "a thousand miles of open desert road." "Johnny Law" and the haunting Highway 54, are always crowd favorites for Wayne's relentless live shows.
Thunderstorms and Neon Signs, contains some of the most chilling yet heartfelt music since Mr. Hank Williams. But yet, moving easily from heartbreak to dancehall honky tonk ("Juke Joint Jumpin'"), Wayne and the band shine. The title track, covered by Hank Williams III, is classic Hancock. And Hank III will be the first to tell you, "Wayne Hancock has more Hank SR in him than either I or Hank Williams JR. He is the real deal."