July 4th weekend.  How much more American can you get than at the Broken Spoke with Dale Watson and the Lone Stars???

Becky and I were the only ones of our group that could make the show, but, there was still a big....and enthusiastic crowd.  And, more than one 'special' moment.

Dale and Gene were both sporting new Tompkins guitars delivered from Australia by Allan Tompkins himself.  Dale started the show with his and was having problems.  Seems Allan had put heavier strings on the new baby and Dale is.....in his own words...'a girlie man in the left hand'.  Unfortunately, I only got one picture of him playing the new guitar....but you can see it in the other pictures (in the spotlight!!).  Gene, however, seemed to have a perfect fit with his as he played it all night.  Well......except for when Allan and then Billy Dee relieved him from his bass duties!  ;)

We've always said that Dale's guitar playing has a very unique sound...now we know why!  Checkout the website for Tompkins Guitars.  I think you'll find it interesting.  Not just because all the guitars are hand made, but, because of all the people playing them!

I had the chance to meet both Allan and his lovely wife.  They are really sweet people and now I'm convinced my next looooong trip will be to Australia!  It's got to be a great place if this couple is an example of the citizens.

www.dalewatson.com