Wayne Hancock

Since his stunning debut, Thunderstorms and Neon Signs in 1995, Wayne The Train Hancock has been the undisputed king of Juke Joint Swing--that alchemists dream of honky-tonk, western swing, blues, Texas rockabilly and big band. You wont even notice that he doesnt have a drummer. Always an anomaly among his country music peers, Waynes uncompromising interpretation of the music he loves is in fact what defines him: steeped in traditional but never retro; bare bones but bone shaking; hardcore but with a swing.

Wayne makes music fit for any road house anywhere. With his unmistakable voice, The Trains reckless honky-tonk can move the dead. If you see him live (and he is ALWAYS touring), youll surely work up some sweat stains on that snazzy Rayon shirt youre wearing.

If you buy his records, youll be rolling up your carpets, spreading sawdust on the hardwood, and dancing until the downstairs neighbors are banging their brooms on the ceiling. Waynes disdain for the slick swill that passes for real deal country is well known. Like hes fond of saying: Man, Im like a stab wound in the fabric of country music in Nashville.

See that bloodstain slowly spreading? )