Cadillac Cowboys

Here's what Joe Tiboni, a veteran of the Ann Arbor and southeast Michigan music scene and honcho at WEMU-FM had to say in his liner notes for the CD:

Some traditions die hard; others just continue to survive despite all odds. The latter is the case of Mike Smith and his Cadillac Cowboys. When Mike Smith and His Country Volunteers first took the stage of Mr. Flood's Party in Ann Arbor, back in 1972, one never knew what assortment of rag-tag volunteers would show up from one week to the next. Eventually, the lineup began to solidify into a regular outfit that came to be known as the Cadillac Cowboys and, 28 years later, here they are playing the western swing, boogie woogie, classic country and rock 'n' roll that's as comfortable as an old pair of cowboy boots. Amazing enough. But what's more amazing is that the Cadillac Cowboys play their tunes with the same freshness, rawness, and energy that they brought to the stage in those early years. These cats just love to play. This disc reflects the Cadillac Cowboys' style - live, natural, and joyful. No layered tracks here. No overdubbed solos and post-recorded vocal tracks. This is the Cadillac Cowboys the way their fans know and love them. Just six guys in the studio, playing and singing their music together. And for those of you who were there in the beginning, we wouldn't be surprised if, as you listen to this disc, you begin to envision the Tiffany lamps, long crowded benches, peanut shells on the floor, Ned behind the bar. Those days may be gone, but this music is timeless. And so, it seems, are the Cadillac Cowboys. Make yourself comfortable and enjoy the ride!
- Joe Tiboni, WEMU-FM

The Cadillac Cowboys performed a benefit concert for SASHA Farm, the first in a series of concerts to benefit local charities and non-profits, last night at Elmo's Hideaway in Ann Arbor. We'd like to extend our thanks to all the Cowboys (and the Cowgirl!), Elmo, and everyone who came out to show their support. They were huge in enthusiasm, and we had a great time meeting everyone. We look forward to watching the Cadillac Cowboys grow this great idea of theirs, and we hope everyone will check out their web site for details and updates.
- Dorothy Davies - Founder

What a treasure. Love the authentic sound of real-time recording with no fancy overdubs. This brings back memories of all the wild times, good times, honky-tonkin', hard-workin', rockin'-back, and even some of the lonesome blues times at the timeless place that was once Mr. Flood's Party. Only two complaints - wish there were more solos, and wish there were liner notes so listeners could raise a glass to each musician's unique artistry on each cut. I'm only giving this four stars until the musicians agree to cut a reunion cd so we can revel in some more midwest music.

- CD Baby

An eclectic selection of tunes from different genres, which all seem to meld together to form a seamlessly entertaining disk. Quite remarkable. These guys are all good players who obviously enjoy each others company. So much the better for us. This is toe-tappin', beer drinkin', get on your feet and swing, music.
- CD Baby