Brian Bovenizer, second from left, will perform with the Koala Cowboys at 10 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 21 at Albatross & Co. in Astoria.

ASTORIA — Growing up splitting time between south suburban Chicago and a lake in southwest Michigan, Brian Bovenizer has always felt the push and pull of the city and the country. This dynamic is apparent in the lyrics and in the airy Western groove of his band, Brian Bovenizer & the Koala Cowboys. While packing the traditional instruments you might find from many country bands, (pedal steel, twangy lead guitar, upright bass and drums) the Koala Cowboys take a loose, off-center approach to the genre.

Residing in Astoria since 2009, Bovenizer has found a peace of mind and home near the ocean. Studying the songwriting style and wit derived from artists such as John Prine and Dr. Hook (Shel Silverstein), Bovenizer has teamed up with a heavy-handed, light-hearted band that carries a vibe the like of masters Commander Cody and his Lost Planet Airmen.

Together, with James Greenan (Cedar Shakes), Jeff Munger (Sallie Ford and the Sound Outside), Luke Ydstie (Blind Pilot, Hook & Anchor) and Olaf Ydstie, the band will embark on its first collective trip away from home to explore some of Oregon’s great spots.

Catch their first show at 10 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 21 at Albatross & Co., located at 255 14th St. in Astoria. The show is free and for ages 21 and older.

The rest of the Oregon Winter Tour includes a 7 p.m. show Jan. 22 at Terminal Gravity in Enterprise; a 7 p.m. show Jan. 23 at Hamley’s Slickfort Saloon in Pendleton with a $5 cover; and a free 6 p.m. happy hour show Jan. 24 at Landmark Saloon in Portland.

For more information about the band, visit Facebook.com/BrianBovenizerMusic