I guess it's sort of obvious that Hank 3 is not going to be showing up on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry anytime in the near future. Nor are you likely to see any of his videos in heavy rotation or hear his music on the radio. While some of his songs on Guttertown might be more accessible than anything on Ghost To Ghost, he's still not the kind of safe and predictable performer the music industry feels comfortable with. However, if you still believe popular music shouldn't be either of those things — rather, that it should upset the establishment and reflect the disquiet of the times; and you understand being a rebel doesn't mean waving the stars and bars or singing songs about beer, boobs and football — then give Hank 3 a listen. He may not sound much like his grandfather, but he definitely inherited his spirit and his willingness to take risks with his music. And while he might carry the weight of a famous name on his shoulders, after listening to these two discs it doesn't seem like it's been too much of a burden for him anyway.
Photo Credit: Cindy Knoener
Article comments