Ray Bonneville creates an instant narrative as if the stories are unfolding before your eyes as he sings in a nicotine tone. The groove is laid back, contributing to the sinister elements in his songs that scratch and claw at the casket's lid. Musically, it's more than the blues; somewhere between roots and lyrical oblivion, even though that blues tag sticks. It'll get to you. Trust me, you'll hang on to every word as Bonneville resurrects ghosts, like Tom Waits without the carnival.
Ray Bonneville plays Thursday, March 23, at Abilene Bar and Lounge, 153 Liberty Pole Way. 7:30 p.m. $10-$13. abilenebarandlounge.com; raybonneville.com.