This came out in 2005 — or at least that’s when I got it. Here’s what I said about it back then (with some minor editing):
After four albums, some bands have run their course. Rex Hobart & The Misery Boys are just settling in for the long haul.
On the outstanding Empty House, these Kansas City honky-tonkers hit their stride with their most accomplished and confident disc yet — a sizzllin’ platter of authentic-sounding Bakersfield twang with shades of Buck Owens and Dwight Yoakam, chased with downright purty Possum-style ballads just to put it all in perspective. Sure, titles like I Just Lost My Mind, The Tear I Left Behind and Don’t Make Me Break Your Heart let you know these boys aren’t kidding about the misery — but you’ll still love their company.
