Amigo (Dualtone, 2001)

David Ball had a number of country radio hits in the '90's, most notably, "Thinking Problem." Now this Uncle Walt's Band alum is back with a new album that's as good as anything from his major label days.

From the title cut, an ode to his guitar, to the finale, a cowboy spiritual, "When The Devil Wants to Wrestle," Ball has compiled a wonderful collection of originals, covers and even a delightful fiddle and accordian instrumental, "New Shiner Polka." He takes a classic Count Basie number, "Linger Awhile," and gives it the dance hall shuffle treatment. His distinctive vocal style shines on slower numbers like "Just Out of Reach" and "Whenever You Come Back To Me" as well as on the more honky tonk sounding, "Loser Friendly." Ball even adds some nice yodeling to "Texas Echo."

The album's first single, "Riding With Private Malone" is a good song and has gotten a warm reception, particularly since the events of Sept. 11.

This is a fine effort in just about every respect.