Flaco Jimenez: Sleepytown

As one of the most in-demand accordionists in Tex-Mex music, Flaco Jimenez must be accustomed to his regular role as a supporting player for artists such as Ry Cooder and Dwight Yoakam, or even as an equal creative partner in Texas Tornados (with the late Doug Sahm) or Los Super Seven (with Joe Ely and members of Los Lobos). As a solo artist, however, Jimenez continues to prove himself a leader of equal repute, still bringing out the best in those with whom he works, yet also confident up front. In fact, the title Sleepytown doesn't seem entirely apt for this lively collection. Featuring stellar singing guests, including Yoakam and Buck Owens, and strong production from Yoakam regular Pete Anderson and the Morales Brothers, the disc offers a solid plate of mild but fun border music. Sleepytown opens with a trio of rave-ups so strong that the disc has trouble maintaining momentum. "A Little Drink, A Little Dance" features singer and slide guitarist Lee Roy Parnell, while the Yoakam-sung "Alright, I'm Wrong" would be at home on any of Yoakam's own solo albums. Then the Buck Owens-led cover of The Beatles' "Love Me Do" belatedly answers that band's own classic Owens cover, "Act Naturally." After that, the album slows down a bit, taking its time with somber mid-tempo numbers ("You've Got Me Wondering," "This Could Be The One") and ballads such as "Désirée," the weepy and dramatic "Amor," and the title track. An unpretentious treat, Sleepytown shows that even the most low-key music can be magical when presented by a master, and Jimenez's sure hand never lets the disc falter even as it periodically eases into siesta territory.