Singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Jim Mathus has an usually diverse resume. He co-founded Squirrel Nut Zippers in the early '90s, collaborated with Andrew Bird on Thrills and Bowl of Fire, and has played everything from Delta blues to klezmer with various ensembles over the years. For White Buffalo, his seventh solo release, Mathus is joined by The Tri-State Coalition: guitarist Matt Pierce, bassist Terrence Bishop, keyboardist Eric Carlton, and drummer Ryan Rogers. The blistering backing band tails him down no matter which rootsy side street he chooses to explore. Here, Mathus delivers an eclectic mix of American roots forms, all dragged through the thick Mississippi mud of his native state. Southern imagery, tall tales, and curious characters enliven these songs, from the country-rock opener to the wiry title track to the swampy blues of “Run Devil Run.” White Buffalo is a tight and enjoyable mix by an irrepressible musical chameleon.