Kevin Fowler,
High on the Hog

Label: Smith Music Group
Year: 2002

(4 out of 5)

Rough-edged and raw: those are the first words that come to mind to describe High on the Hog, Kevin Fowler's third solo album. Such words may seem negative at first, but in this rare case they're actually intended as a compliment to a singer and songwriter who is simply bursting with country-boy energy.

"The Lord Loves the Drinkin' Man" has become a major Texas Music hit, and deservedly so. The wickedly sardonic song manages to poke fun at strait-laced puritans while upholding the equally time-honored tradition of alcohol enjoyment.

Lovin', cheatin', and leavin' is the major theme running through most of the album's dozen tracks, from the weepy "Not Lovin' Anymore" and the similarly pessimistic "Our Love Is a Prison" to the hormone-laden "Senorita Mas Fina" and the cover of Queen's downright crude "Fat Bottomed Girls."

While Fowler has the chops to carry his own material, he receives a little help from Willie Nelson on "All the Tequila in Tijuana." While Willie generally is a welcome addition on any album, his vocals this time out are almost unintelligible, and his breathy baritone obscures rather than complements Fowler's lead vocals.

Overall, this self-released album (recently re-released by Smith Music Group) is a perfect showcase of why Kevin Fowler has become one of the most popular live acts in the state. While the lyrics may fall short of poetry, Fowler brings a high level of infectious energy and enthusiasm that is rare on a studio recording. Don't be surprised if you catch yourself singing along—just try to keep up better than Willie did.

Buy: Lone Star Music, Amazon

July 20, 2004