Despite its title, the first nationally released album by this Texas maverick establishes Robison as considerably more than a good-time Charlie. From the sardonic bite of "Sunset Boulevard" and "You're Not the Best" to the alcohol-fueled, nursery-rhyme whimsy of "Barlight," Robison provides a compelling blend of roadhouse swagger, whiplash humor, and an ornery streak that stretches from Austin to San Antonio. Label-mate brother Bruce Robison and Bruce's wife Kelly Willis provide vocal support, and the smoky balladry of the album-closing "Molly's Blues" would do John Prine or Steve Earle proud. Amid a musical landscape littered with alt-country wannabes and tinhorn rebels, Charlie Robison is the real deal, an artist who sticks to his guns. --Don McLeese
