DA Valdez, who plays drums, banjo and guitar in this trio already has a long history as drummer for The Pontiac Brothers. You've likely heard people say, 'Give the drummer some!' in a concert setting, but apparently The Pontiac Brothers didn't give Valdez enough opportunity to share his songs. So formed Echo Sparks.

The first song that grabs your attention on this album is "Princess of Fresno." "You're the princess of Fresno with nothing left to lose," they sing. But it's hard to take this lyric too seriously because Fresno is no great shakes of a town and certainly not any kingdom for aspiring princesses.

CC Kinnick sings many of the lead vocals, and oftentimes harmonizes with Valdez. The accordion-colored "Mexican Moon" is particularly lovely. The music is country in places, and Tex-Mex in others with an overall Southwestern vibe.

Valdez's songs are strong, so it's a good thing for all of us that he's formed this new creative outlet.