This 1990 release is essential listening for fans of Texas blues/rock ’n’ roll. Family Style is the only full studio release by Austin’s most celebrated brothers, Stevie Ray and Jimmie Vaughan.
The record’s opener “Hard To Be”, written by Stevie Ray and Doyle Bramhall is reminiscent of older brother Jimmie’s band The Fabulous Thunderbirds.
“White Boots” is pure bar room rock ’n’ roll. Instrumentals “D/FW” and “Hillbillies From Outer Space” demonstrate the brothers’ instantly recognisable tone and phrasing.
Elsewhere, “Long Way From Home” drives along like a southern steam train and the R&B “Tick Tock” features some soulful, gospel laden backing vocals. Later, the funky “Telephone Song” wouldn’t have sounded out of place on Stevie’s “Couldn’t Stand The Weather” album.
The closing track, “Brothers” showcases Stevie and Jimmie’s slow blues phrasing and their shared Albert King influence.
If you’re looking to add to your Texas blues collection, Family Style is 41 minutes of pure brotherly bliss.