Critics have described Gary Allan’s music as a successful fusion of California and Nashville country styles. His recent songs (written after his wife’s suicide) have tackled addiction, lost love and even the mythic redemption of Johnny Cash. Allan is seen as a country traditionalist with a stripped-down modern style. He is at once serious musician and heartthrob. Initially a honky-tonker, Allan has spent his 11-year, six-album career moving steadily away from that sound. What he’s created is a mixture of sex, sentiment and good old-fashioned country-rock balladry. He is touring on the heels of his greatest hits album, which was released earlier this year. Allan performs at Innsbrook After Hours Thursday, Sept. 20. Gates open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $15-$35. Call 794-6700 or visit www.ticketstobuy.com.