Lone Star dazzlers
They ain’t Texans, but the state should adopt ‘em
What is it about old San Antone that causes the town name to figure in so many Country-Western lyrics? One oldie is the Western Swing number San Antonio Rose, which has emerged from a long slumber in a lively new version that you may well agree surpasses anything from the past.
Commenters on this Petersens version declared it the best they'd ever run across. I agree; it has polish, a nice tempo, verve and cohesive musical talent. And the band is hip at Western Swing, as shown by this and past efforts.
On this number, I like Ellen's vocals better than those of any of the others. Much better. Sung with joy and verve, nicely supported by expert harmonizing.
In addition, the arrangement is much better than the original's or any of the other covers I encountered. The overlong intro might have made sense in big swing band days. But for our times, it has been cut and replaced with a Petersens-style instrumental break, which really does the trick. The outro (or coda or what have you) also is in classic Petersens style, blending harmony with a dash of melodic flourish.
Noteworthy is the guitar work of their New Zealand tour meister, Mark Mazengarb, who apparently prodded them to perform the number. Good idea, Bro.
These folks always come up with extra-pleasing visuals, showing that their artistic sense extends beyond the auditory. The set is especially fortunate, with a New Zealand building that somehow evokes Old Texas. And the videographer, Aaron Clark, can be relied on to come up with excellent footage.
You may wish to check these other versions:
Patsy's version
She's not really doing Western Swing, but she brings it off with her voice and exacting pitch. Yet not much enthusiasm.
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1940s Bob Wills' big band version
I don't find it all that good -- probably because it's meant as a throwaway dance number.
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The Hag in Austin
Highly polished, but lacks Merle's usual gravitas. You're supposed to take it as high-toned. But this admirer says ... ehhh...
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Teen angels
Here is a sweet performance by the three teen sisters of the Arizona Wildflowers, with their little brother on bass.
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Recent releases from other bands
The Burnett Sisters
These sisters have been at it since their teen years, and they continue to produce first rate Bluegrass.
Backwoods Bluegrass
Haven't heard anything from this highly skilled group that I haven't enjoyed. They post to Youtube often.
High Carbon Steel
These young men -- along with their older bassist -- do a lot of good work, which they post on YouTube frequently. In this video, the players don’t follow the standard Bluegrass string band formula, tho the snare drum’s acceptability is a matter of controversy. In fact these men focus largely on Country. Yet, their style is highly evocative of the Bluegrass genre.
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Addendum
Clever nonsense from the Petersens' Zanytunes channel.