Few roadside attractions deliver on their promise as well as the Sandhills Curiosity Shop in Erick, Oklahoma. The self-proclaimed “redneck capital of the world, it’s a place where “nothing is for sale, and the greatest curiosity is its owner,” Harley Russell. Walking into the dim confines of this establishment, chockablock with Americana, you’re bound to feel a little disoriented, which seems apt, as the proprietor, Harvey himself, seems a little off himself. Sitting amongst the disarray, surrounded by vintage guitars, he is a captivating character, to say the least. Unfortunately, I wasn’t there for a performance of “The Mediocre Music Makers,” but I did get to hear Harley tell a little bit about his life; seems he had lived down in Austin during its 70s heyday, before moving up to Erick, to get away from it all, and meeting the love of his life, Annabelle. The two of them stayed right where they’d met, in the very building that we were standing in, transforming it and themselves into the curiosities of the name. Their infamy spread wide enough that Harvey reportedly inspired one of the characters in the movie Cars, and a documentary, Harley & Annabelle – Living Legends in Erick, Oklahoma was made about them and their unique shop. Sadly, Annabelle passed away in 2014, but Harley is till there, spinning his tales. When you meet him, tell him Terry says hi. He won’t remember me, but maybe he’ll pretend he does.