Riders in the Sky

Western swing revivalists Riders in the Sky have long been known for their engaging brand of Prairie Home Companion-style traditional cowboy music and their we're-having-a-great-time-and-so-should-you attitude, so their 2001 release, A Pair of Kings, comes pleasantly with no shocking surprises. The "pair of kings" referenced in the album's title are featured Riders Joey "the Cowpolka King" Miskulin and Woody Paul, King of the Cowboy Fiddlers. These members of nouveau Western swing royalty are ably backed by longtime Riders Ranger Doug and Too Slim on 12 songs that range from traditional Bob Wills-esque romps like "You Stole My Wife You Horsethief" and Johnny Mercer's "I'm an Old Cowhand," to more contemporary interpretations like their "Celtic Medley" and the jazzy "Bunkhouse Race." These four diehards are one of the few acts still making records in the traditional cowboy style, and their releases each deserve all of the recognition they get. ~ Zac Johnson, All Music Guide