DAVID LYNN JONES Hard Times On Easy Street (Mercury)

Dadgum if this old boy don’t sound like a good buddy the very first time you hear him. No surprise, considering the reference points: Jones has ties to country’s Outlaw movement—Willie recorded his “Living in the Promiseland” and Waylon guests here—and he also takes a cue from Nashville’s new traditionalists. Just observe how he wallows in the macho sentimentality of “Home of My Heart,” and plows through a Steve Earle-style boogie like “Bonnie Jean (Little Sister)” with the same easy confidence. Bruce ’n’ Mellencamp fans should investigate “Tonight in America,” an anthemic ramble about an ill-fated kid named Frankie. Though his voice ain’t nothin’ special, being tantamount to a gruff growl, David Lynn’s obvious sincerity matters a whole heap more than technical ability. Fine stuff. J.Y.

DETROIT WITH MITCH RYDER Detroit (MCA)