Cheap Vodka Rain

Willie Breeding, whose recordings tip a cap to Hank and Willie, brings that old-timey, soaring white-boy country and blues back to the people. Breeding’s new LP, Cheap Vodka Rain, never hits the alcoholic low that the title suggests, opting instead for soaring tunes about lost love, heartache and what happens when relationships run out of the good ol’ days. The recording brings to mind a 21st century version of Glen Campbell’s “Wichita Lineman.” Instead of those over-produced ’70s strings, Breeding has imbued his songs with pop sensibility and a gaggle of musicians who accentuate the subtle melodies in his tunes with zealous flair. Just wait till the weather gets warm and you can sit in the back of your truck with some banquet beer and enjoy this contemporary country gem. Willie Breeding plays at 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13 at Derby City Espresso (331 E. Market St., 442-0523) with Brooks Ritter.