Rocking Rhythm Rangers Celebrate First Album : Popular group will treat fans to a free concert at their CD release party.

Those popular country-rock ‘n’ rollers, the Rhythm Rangers, unveil their first album, “Aces and Eights,” at a free CD release party and concert tonight at Maxie’s in Oak View.

Eleven of the 12 songs on the album were written by Michael J. Smith (guitar, vocals, harmonica) and Craig Newton (guitar, vocals). Rounding out the lineup are Alan Drettler (bass), Pete Gallagher (drums) and new keyboardist / vocalist R. V. Park.

Songs include “The Dancer,” a haunting waltz and one of the group’s most requested songs, and plenty of upbeat stuff, including Elvis-flavored “Confidante,” country-swing “Aces and Eights,” the raunchy “Alaska Boogie” and “Wheels,” a train-beat two-step number.

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Instructor Lisa Kay has introduced a series of four-week lessons that start the first Wednesday of each month at the City Line Club in Santa Barbara. “Survival West Coast Swing” begins at 7:30 p.m. Then at 8:15 p.m., intermediate and advanced dancers can learn a surprise move every week. The cost of $5 per person at the door includes lessons, dancing and one beverage. City Line is inside San Marcos Bowl, 4050 Calle Real (683-5701).

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Hey, seniors, how about a field trip for dining and dancing at Wild Bill’s Wild West Show in Buena Park? The bus leaves Thousand Oaks at 11 a.m. Feb. 11 and gets you back at 6 p.m. The entertainment includes dancers, singers and rope-trick artists. Cost of $33 per person includes transportation, meal and show. Anyone 50 and older is welcome to jump aboard. For reservations, call 497-1639.

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Details

* WHAT: CD release party and concert.

* WHO: The Rhythm Rangers.

* WHEN: 8 p.m. party, followed by concert at 9 tonight.

* WHERE: Maxie’s, 101 Short St., Oak View.

* HOW MUCH: free admission and eats.

* CALL: 649-9931.

* FYI: The Rhythm Rangers also take the Maxie’s stage at 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.