El Viejo (For Ian)

El Viejo, friend of mine

I think you left us just in time

They're outta vodka, no more wine

I think you left us just in time

You know I hate to see you leave

But it ain't no secret you believed

You was meant for earlier days

Wilder times and a freer range

So old compadre, Lord, I know

You was likely glad to go

I hope it's easier in time

For those of us you've left behind

They ain't dealin' blackjack down at Stockmen's in Nevada anymore

And they'd wanna pay you six to five, but that ain't hardly worth playin' for

All's I seen was slot machines from wall to wall, the whole casino floor

Nobody hittin' seventeen playin' against the dealer, that's for sure

Mi amigo, mon ami

Elko blues, indeed

You know we did the best we could

But the shine was off the wood

We played up most all of your songs

But with you and Don and Baxter gone

That sure leaves some boots to fill

And I'm not sure we ever will

But on a slightly brighter side

The Outside Circle guys

Well, they're still tearin' up the Star

And Capriola's ain't that far

They ain't dealin' blackjack down at Stockmen's in Nevada anymore

And they'd wanna pay you six to five but that ain't hardly worth playin' for

All's I seen was slot machines from wall to wall, the whole casino floor

Nobody hittin' seventeen and worse yet, the Commercial's closed its doors

Nobody hittin' seventeen playin' against the dealer rest assured

El Viejo, friend of mine

I think you left us just in time