This bargain introduction to nouveaux Westerners Ranger Doug, Woody Paul, and Too Slim features the kind of songs any singing cowboy worth his salt knows by heart. If there are few surprises, there's more than enough engaging musicianship and singing, highlighted by Ranger Doug's mellow croon and skillful yodeling. The arrangements are spare and exact, emphasizing guitar, bass, and some fiddle, but the real attraction is the trio's harmonies. If Riders in the Sky never quite live up to their heroes like Sons of the Pioneers and Riders of the Purple Sage, the playful affection they bring to these tunes is never less than charming. --Roy Kasten