Country music doesn't always get a fair shake. Perhaps one of the most ridiculed genres of the 21st century, you often hear critics saying things like "I like all kinds of music, except country." And who can blame them? "Artists" like Carrie Underwood, Toby Keith and Shania Twain have dragged country's name so deep in the mud it's easy to forget that the music was once deeply respected and appreciated amongst the general public. You had Hank Williams, George Jones, Waylon Jennings, Ricki Skaggs, Johnny Cash, and the list goes on and on. Sure, country still tops the charts and is a force to be reckoned with the further down south and out west you go. But if your a fan of TRUE country music, you might have to dig a bit deeper.

Aside from all the politics, when (real) country is good, it's GREAT. The twang of a loose Telecaster, the slap of an upright bass and the slide on a steel guitar have a way of pulling you in. The melodies and harmonies in country music are some of the most beautiful sounds to ever come from any genre of music period. Last night, Nick 13 did a great job of reminding us what good country is and why the music is here to stay.

For those who don't know, Nick 13 is the guitarist and singer for legendary punk/psychobilly band Tiger Army. TA has been around for nearly 15 years and have a huge following, perhaps one of the biggest on a label full of punk rock heavyweights, Hell-Cat. In the last few years Nick's love for Americana and country music has manifested itself in a solo project, now touring and fresh off the release of his first self-titled disc. A couple songs on the disc are Tiger Army tunes, most notably my favorite, "In the Orchard." I remember years ago actually thinking this was TA's best song and he should continue in this vein. Lo and behold my wishes came true. The rest of the tracks on the disc are seasoned barn-burners. A great mix of smooth, mellow, introspective tunes with full on swingin' hard hitters.

The band came out last night looking the part; a real deal honky tonk country band. You could tell right away that Nick had handpicked some seasoned players too. Theirs was a confidence that only comes with years of playing and practice. Nick started with a few upbeat tunes, before settling into a groove of more mid-tempo numbers. His voice was extremely smooth and he sounded great, despite a few technical issues in the beginning of the set. The most captivating part of the performance though, at least for me, were the steel guitar solo's. Theres just something about good steel guitar that does it to me every time. After introducing members of the band, Nick hit on a couple old TA tunes (I was stoked to hear him play the new revamped version of "In the Orchard") as well as a 1940's cover tune. Mohawk Place was the perfect environment for the show. There was a good size audience and the crowd was responsive. Yee-haws and Whoooo's echoed loud throughout the aged venue. Considering that Mohawk Place started as a blues bar in the early/mid 90's it seemed like a befitting spot to celebrate our americana heritage. Unfortunately the set wasn't too long. The crowd clearly wanted more, but I imagine as Nick continues to work on solo material he'll have more than enough the next time he comes round these parts. All in all, great show.