"Ernest Tubb (1914 - 1984) was one of the first recording artists to popularize honky tonk music. His big voice, great songs and highly identifiable vocal and instrumental style made him of country music's all time greats, and he was widely known as a man who'd go out of his way to help those who needed it.

Tubb's music is a "country cousin" to western swing, and in this album we've recorded 12 songs associated with ET in our own, Bob Wills influenced style. It's our way of tipping our hats to a great man and getting our hands around some great songs. Here's to you ET!" (John England)

Far too many people their memories of Ernest Tubb and his music don't go much further than the latter performances of his career performing on the Opry stage singing his classic hits "Waltz Across Texas" and "Walkin' The Floor Over You" but for John England and the Western Swingers, Ernest Tubb's musical legacy is far reaching and revered.

The band is an illustrious group of A-list musicians who not only are masters musicians but obviously love what they do. The Western Swingers are: John England, Gene "Pappy" Merritts, Randy Mason, David Spicher, Tommy Hannum and Tom McBryde. The album also showcases the additional talents of guest musicians: Jerry Krahn, Paul Kramer, Jimmy Clark, Billy Huber, Scott Ducaj, John Balut and Paul Ross.

"Thanks a Lot" is not only a tribute to the music of Ernest Tubb but its a fine example of how good music is ageless and how there's always a little room to add a little western swing to a tune. The original Texas Troubadour's unique brand of honkytonk music has never sounded better as its mixed with a jazzy dose of Bob Wills.

Thanks a Lot follows the band's impressive debut "Swingin' Broadway". This time the band continues to kick up the sawdust with their efforts to support the burgeoning revival of western swing. They've proven that you can make the old new again without having to lose any of its classic lustre and sheen.

The album not only dusts off old favorites, it digs deep into the back corner of the closet and pulls out long forgotten treasures and obscure gems. You'll hear great renditions of ET's infamous Walkin' The Floor Over You and Waltz Across Texas but you'll also hear 'too-many-to-count' highlights such as the toe tappin' revival of "Thanks a Lot", superb 'triple fiddle' and outstanding steel guitar playing of Tommy Hannum on "I Love You Because" and the memorable and ever timely, ET penned hit 'It's Been So Long Darlin''. Cindy Walker's "Don't Be Ashamed Of Your Age" proves itself timeless and for those who lean a little towards country blues there's You Nearly Lose Your Mind' and 'In Her Own Peculiar Way'.

Summed up, the Western Swingers sophomore effort is a brilliant tribute to a country legend with their own brand of multi-layered, consummate musicianship. Country music fans owe a huge "Thanks a Lot" to ET and his musical legacy, as do John England and the Western Swingers for taking the time to remind us of its robust depth, far reaching breadth and longevity.