Poly Ester, Antsy's wife, comes on stage occasionally as a backup singer.
What a pleasure it was to see Antsy McClain and the Trailer Park Troubadours for the 4th time in 5 years. Compared to some of their fans who attend every local concert and attend ocean cruises with the band, I’m a casual observer. While some of the Trailer Park Troubs have changed over the years, they never fail to deliver solid set of their most enduring rockabilly (rock-n-roll + trailer park + hill billy) tunes.
Family Friendly
An aspect that I have always admired from Antsy and the Troubs is family friendly lyrics and stage conduct. While you may hear the word “hell” in a song, that is the worse of the lyrics or on stage banter. Even though they poke fun at living in a trailer park, which Antsy did growing up, the songs are still respectful to the people they may satirize. They have actually raised the status of living in a trailer park.
Affectionately known as a Streng double-wide, we feel a part of the trailer park with our house.
They play for their loyal following
Over the years I have seen the show decrease the number of songs they play with longer versions of audience favorites. I am fine with this because it allows the musicians a chance to stretch out their musical talents. While I have never seen the same drummer twice, they have added another percussionist who is most enthusiastic and added a different element to the show.
Some of the favorite tunes they played were: “My Baby Whistles When She Walks”, “The Croquet King”, “Jailbird Beauty”, “Way Cool World” and the audience participation song of “I Married Up”. They also did a very cool riff on Soft Cell’s “Tainted Love” by turning it into “Trailer Love”. Another great addition was performing “King of the Road” with a member of the local Dean-O-Holics, Dean Martin.
The absolute worst part of the show was seeing the 50-year-old Antsy McClain, singing, dancing and performing like he was 25. Darn it, he should age like the rest of us. My Trailer Park Page
These are not the best photos, but it gives a feeling for the show. Click thumbnails to enlarge.
