"The Mekons Honky Tonkin'" is the seventh studio album by British rock band The Mekons. It was released in 1987 under the record label Sin Records. The album marked a significant departure from the band's previous punk-oriented sound, signaling a shift towards a more country-and-western (also known as "alt-country") style.
This album was part of a broader movement in the 1980s, where British rock bands began integrating American country music elements into their distinctive punk and indie rock sound - a distinct blend that came to be known as "cowpunk". The Mekons, already known for their experimental sound, wholly embraced this transition on "Honky Tonkin'", creating a unique fusion of British punk rock and traditional American country.
The album has been well received by critics for its innovative blend of genres, with songs like "I Can't Find My Money", "Someone", and "Hole in the Ground" particularly standing out for their catchy tunes and thoughtful lyrics. It's often considered as a pivotal album in The Mekons' discography, representing a significant shift in their stylistic approach and laying the foundation for their subsequent creative directions.
In terms of the band's background, The Mekons were originally part of the punk rock scene in England during the late 1970s, but they've since evolved and expanded their musical style considerably. They're known for their politically charged lyrics and eclectic blend of music genres, further explored in the album "Honky Tonkin'".
