20 Essential Albums Every Country Music Fan Should Own

18. Dave Alvin - King Of California

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aZIkIydnsdE Key Tracks: 4th of July, King of California, Blue Wing Dave Alvin is probably most well-known as a member of The Blasters, which he fronted with older brother Phil. Dave split from the band in 1986 in order to pursue a solo career. Early efforts yielded mixed results, with Alvin's obvious songwriting prowess failing to be matched by the music. Thankfully, things came together with 1994's King of California, which displayed a more stripped-down, acoustic sound and was much better for it. The title track is the standout but keep your eyes open for his celebrator 4th of July (a rockier version can be found on Romeo's Escape) and Blue Wing, a cover of a song by the often overlooked Tom Russell.