*** David Ball, “Thinkin’ Problem,” Warner Bros....

*** David Ball, “Thinkin’ Problem,” Warner Bros. Ball’s debut album recalls the golden age of honky-tonk, focusing almost exclusively on the ghosts of busted relationships and the accompanying feelings of all-consuming failure. His wondrous voice at times echoes past greats more than it creates its own stamp, but Ball’s willingness to forge his own path is unmistakable.

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