"El Viejo (For Ian)" lyrics

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 left behind

They ain't dealin' blackjack down at Stockmen's in Nevada anymore
And they'd wanna pay you six to five and 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
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 and 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