In an ideal world, country radio would sound more like the Doc Marshalls. With influences ranging from traditionalists such as Buck Owens and Johnny Cash to innovators like Gram Parsons and Dwight Yoakam, this New York City-based five-piece delivers an honest, unflinching honky tonk sound. Not content to remain within the confines of a typical roots band, they also boast a raucous set of Cajun breakdowns and Zydeco shuffles.

Led by Texas-raised Acadian Nick Beaudoing, the Doc Marshalls have quickly forged a reputation for their wildly energetic live shows. Anchored by the fiddling wizardry of Mat Kane and the breakneck accompaniment of Beaudoing's Cajun accordion, their unique Louisiana grooves have infiltrated the halls of countless alternative rock venues where roots music is seldom heard. Whether performing Bakersfield-style shuffles or traditional Cajun French two-steps, they are determined to make converts of even the most country-shy souls.

Their debut album, "No Kind of Life" (2005), was warmly received by roots radio, spending over a month in the Americana Top 40. Their followup CD, Honest for Once (2008), was recorded at Cowboy Technical Studios in Williamsburgh, Brooklyn. Comprised entirely of originals, the Doc Marshalls' latest release emphasizes story-telling over genre. Whereas "No Kind of Life" explored bleary recollections of good love gone wrong, Honest for Once visits themes of leaving town, sympathy for losers, fading affection, and the darker side of life in Texas. Expect a healthy dose of dirty Cajun stomps, gritty honky-tonk, and guest appearances by the likes of guitarist Eric "Roscoe" Ambel (Steve Earl).

In an era when mainstream country remains polluted by bubble gum balladry and sugar-coated sentiment, the Doc Marshalls have distinguished themselves by performing covers and originals which pay homage to the genre's distinguished past. You'll find these hardened city troubadours in roadhouses Texas to New York City and wherever bar tabs and ears remain open. Country radio be damned.