Dan Hicks' multifaceted musicality and adroit lyrical aptitude surface on
Selected Shorts (2004). Backed by his 21st century reformation of
the Hot Licks -- including the powerhouse rhythm section of
Jim Keltner (drums) and
Tony Garnier (bass) --
Hicks blends his love of swing and continental jazz into a uniquely modern sensibility. He likewise remains remarkably prolific, penning 11 of the set's 14 cuts. The eclectic affair opens with a spry "Mama's Boy Blues" that barrels along, augmented by some piquant Hammond B-3 organ maneuvers from
Mike Finnigan. "That's Where I'm At" is a hot-steppin' number that would have sounded right at home on the bandstand of the
Quintet of the Hot Club of France. Returning
Hot Lick "Symphony" Sid Page (violin), adorns the melody, while
Van Dyke Parks (accordion) creates an ethereal gypsy-esque vibe surrounding
Hicks' surreal poetry. The blues-fused original "Hey Bartender" chugs steadily, sporting a humorous call-and-response with
the Lickettes.
Hicks is joined by
Willie Nelson on the ambling "One More Cowboy," a tune infused with same Southwestern flavor of
Nelson's classic duets with
Waylon Jennings. "Barstool Boogie" stands out not only for featuring a co-lead with
Jimmy Buffet (vocals), but as a stellar example of
Hicks' deliciously droll dialogue and trademark infectious groove. Another zenith is the remake of "C'mon-A-My-House," adopting a darker quality compared to
Rosemary Clooney's 1951 version. The album concludes with "That Ain't Right" and the pairing of
Hicks and
Butthole Surfers' frontman
Gibby Haynes -- whose contributions are derived from a collect phone call -- further exemplifies
Hicks' artistic malleability. In this way he enters the ranks of
Tom Waits and the aforementioned
Van Dyke Parks in terms of relevance to a modern audience. Whether you're a longtime
Dan Hicks enthusiast or a recent convert,
Selected Shorts is a heartily recommended entry into his intangible, yet instantly recognizable canon. ~ Lindsay Planer