A cheerful blend of anything-that-works, “Whole Grain” ranges from a breezy and bright “Glory Of Love” to the tongue-in-cheek “Alberta Springs,” an original ode to the restorative powers of a certain malt beverage.  “Snap Cracklin Pop” and “Inner Jazzbo” – both original – reflect a bit of Gypsy Jazz influence, and “Moonlight In Manitoba” sounds like it was lifted from the soundtrack to a romantic movie from a bygone –  and much simpler – age.

Sentiments are sincere – the boys have done their research and know the material inside and out – but nothing gets in the way of a good time.  So “Mean Ol’ Frisco” is a bouncy romp rather than a declaration of desperation.  And Hank Snow’s “A Fool Such As I” is given a lilting accompaniment, complete with atmospheric accordion and fiddle, that reflects a hint of optimism rather than the usual dark despair.  Even T-Bone Walker’s “I’m Still In Love With You” comes across as unusually jaunty and carefree.

Less effective are re-workings of CCR’s “Bad Moon Rising” – lacking the spooky menace of the original, it falls somewhat flat - and a surprising “Stagger Lee” that seems to jump in about half-way through the familiar tale.  But given the delightful old-timey ease of everything here, with the whole suffused from beginning to end with sunny good cheer and exuberant wit, those are minor quibbles.

Performances are stellar throughout, as is production.  While he’s not exactly challenged to dig deep, Mr. Rick’s vocals feature just the right nonchalant swagger, and ‘Josephus Burns’ is exemplary on upright bass.  The band is rounded out by Luther Wheatstraw on pedal steel and mandolin, augmented this time out by guests Drew Jurecka (violin), Neva Tesolin (accordion), with Rob Fenton adding touches of lap steel here and there.

Not the deepest of blues, perhaps, but as a fun platter for a sunny day this one would be hard to beat.  Recommended!