Ray Abshire’s third effort in a decade is his most dancehall-centric yet, due to a fuller band sound with sons Brent and Travis on acoustic guitar and bass and former BeauSoleil accordionist Jimmy Breaux behind the traps with an unfaltering downbeat. Because of Abshire’s longtime association with the Balfa Brothers and the unsung Robert Bertrand, the accordionist has always been influenced by the fiddle’s rich expression, which explains the presence of twin fiddlers Kevin Wimmer and Courtney Granger who provide many of the disc’s celestial moments (“Cher Cherie”).

Though it may appear as just another traditional album to those unwilling to peek under the covers, Abshire is not without subtle innovation. Several tunes, such as “Dewey & Nathan’s Waltz,” “Good Time Two-step,” and “Carolina Blues” are resurrected from obscurity with some arrangement modifications. While several selections are associated with the Balfa Brothers, cousin Nathan Abshire and Bertrand, Abshire adds three originals to the repertoire. “Blue Moon Blues” has become a dancer’s favorite since it feels like it’s about to explode but never does. Even its title is traditionally based since, historically, songs were named after nightclubs.

Additionally, Abshire and Granger alternate vocal duties that provide a pleasing contrast between Abshire’s quasi-Cajun classic weepy style and Granger’s velvety tone that has gotten deeper over the years. Throughout these 18 tracks, the group never breaks a sweat with its masterful flow of songs. Peppy two-steps downshift into majestic waltzes before ramping up again; giving the impression that Abshire and crew can do this all night long.