Steve Earle is way more rock 'n' roll than any twangy Texas troubadour should be, right down to the former drug abuse problems and jail time served.

So excuse me for being a little bit taken aback during the early part of Earle's sold-out show at The Phoenix last night, when it seemed the normally edgy singer-songwriter-guitarist had gone a bit soft.

After a slow start -- exceptional new songs like Christmas In Washington, Here I Am and Taneytown aside -- Earle finally found his trademark bluster by the fifth song, My Old Friend.

From that moment on, the wonderfully dishevelled-looking Earle, drinking only bottled water, was telling the rowdy older crowd to "Shut Up!" as they continually shouted out song titles.

However, nothing could beat this introduction to his three- man band, or as he called them: "The Mighty, Mighty Dukes from Nashville, Tennessee.

"The only thing I've been through more of than wives is drummers," deadpanned the six-times married Earle. "And I miss several of the drummers."

Coming in a close second was Earle's explanation of the new song, Somewhere Out There, as he talked about racking up a #1,950 phone bill after falling in love with an American girl while touring in Europe.

"This is the most expensive pop song ever written," he said. "Please buy this record so I can break even on this."

Fortunately for Earle, most of the musical highlights during last night's 27-song set were from his critically acclaimed new album, El Corazon, including If You Fall, You Know The Rest, Telephone Road, the ballad Ft. Worth Blues and The Other Side Of Town.

Also good were Earle's biggest hit to date, Copperhead Road, and the crashing guitar chords and drum beats which framed the title track from his 1996 album, I Feel Alright.

Judging from his good humor, adept guitar and harmonica playing and cranky spirit, Earle still feels alright.

He still sounds alright too.

JAM! Rating: 4 out of 5