There’s a fine tradition of innuendo in country songwriting, but Wheeler Walker Jr. (the alter ego of comedian Ben Hoffman) is living proof that explicit expression is not without art — and does a fine service to the genre by undercutting any notions of piety associated with it. Walker’s sophomore album Ol’ Wheeler takes a look at the restless horniness that he was so open about on his 2016 debut Redneck Shit, in the context of the consequences of fame. One standout cut is “Fuckin’ Around,” a duet with ex-wife Kacey Walker (Nikki Lane performing in character), which portrays a marriage wrecked by long stretches of touring. It’s as nuanced and clever as anything Loretta and Conway or Dolly and Porter ever laid to tape: “I think I’ll hide under the covers,” Wheeler sings, to which Kacey responds, “You better wash ’em first / They still smell like your brother.” And that’s just the tip, if you’ll pardon the expression. Friday’s release party was sold out at press time, and will feature Republican Hair, a no-fucks-giving, rock-leaning side project of Music Row songsmith Luke Dick. STEPHEN TRAGESER
Wheeler Walker Jr. Album Release Feat. Republican Hair
