Song Premiere: Jonathan Terrell’s “Cowboy Band”

Jonathan Terrell

The biggest risk in going to see Jonathan Terrell at the White Horse on Valentine’s Day is that he might sweep your partner off their feet. Don’t worry though, because he’s got a song for your sad broken heart, too.

Terrell releases new single “Cowboy Band” on Friday as well, but you can get an early preview here. The local singer, guitarist, and song wrangler spun the weeping waltz after the dissolution of a nearly decade-long relationship. Every piece of the bittersweet parting seeps into the song pleading for one last dance.

In fact, “Cowboy Band” showcases Terrell at his most traditional. The new song gives off a classic, Ray Price country feel updated behind his rough, sorrowful vocals. Tosca Strings saw and pluck through arrangements by Beau Bedford, and Midland frontman Mark Wystrach pitches in harmonies.

The song advances Terrell’s third LP, Westward, produced by Stuart Sikes and which Terrell hopes to release this year. He’s rallied a slew of hometown friends to contribute to the highly anticipated release, including Shakey Graves, Gregg Rolie, and members of the Band of Heathens. Additional vocals come courtesy of Christy Hays and the Soul Supporters, who are currently backing the Black Pumas. Album track “Lemon Cigarettes” slots in David Ramirez as its co-composer.

Westward reflects the past few years of the local honky-tonker’s tireless work ethic. That period also resuled in last year’s new album from his rock band Not in the Face, a work produced while he held down a Thursday night residency at the White Horse even as he toured constantly. That road work gets a big boost this month when Terrell opens for Midland in Texas.

So shine up your best dancin’ boots and give “Cowboy Spin” an ear. Catch its author this Friday at White Horse as he breaks hearts and warms souls for his Valentine’s Day show. Missy Beth & the Morning Afters and Devin Jake set up the evening.