Houstonist Listens: Buxton's Feathers/Flint 7"

There are several things that have a special spot in our heart: Lone Star on tap at Walter's, our favorite pair of underwear, the fries at Barnaby's, and listening to records on a turntable all fall into the above category. Houstonist wants you to know, reader, that local music stalwarts Buxton have obtained notable rank among these things we cherish.

Fact is, these boys have been making some fine music for nigh on six years, and we've been fans since we first heard them roll through our town. This weekend they'll be unveiling their new seven-inch single, Feathers/Flint. We were fortunate enough to be given a sneak preview.

Here's what you need to know: the songs are awesome. Feathers kicks off with a sad horn intro before launching into a rollicking two minute jam that gives way to frontman Sergio Trevino's signature vocals. Justin Terrell's percussion and the guitar tones of Jason Willis are perfect, and at the end of this five and a half minute ditty, all we want is more. When we flip over to Flint, we are greeted with a honky-tonk shuffle, Trevino's embattered vocals, and a walking bassline from Chris Wise before the horn floats back. A hot lick from Willis and Terrell's staccato percussion round out this number.

The songs are classics; they definitely pay the past a nod, but the band has built solid tunes on a time-tested foundation and then adorned it with a dash of modernity, giving them a timeless quality. Throughout the songs one will find the smoky scent of whiskey, the sweat off an old Lone Star, the solid smack of an old boot heel, and the soft comfort of an well worn pearl snap shirt. The allure of Buxton lies in their familiarity: even if you bristle at the notion of country, the music has already been written in your heart, having captured it before you have noticed.

On top of all this, the production is astounding: it is one of the best assembled local releases we've heard recently. And, while it might not count musically, we find the album artwork to be stellar.

If you haven't caught them live yet, you're missing out on one of the best acts in town. Buxton plays Saturday night at Mango's with Wild Moccasins and Ghost Mountain. The show will run you a cool $8, which includes a copy of the single. Make sure you are present for all three acts, because each band is fantastic. Houstonist will be there for certain.