by Tori Jee
www.highlandernews.org
Banjos are plucked, guitars are strummed, and the old man with the braids takes the stage once more. Willie Nelson in his new album, “Country Music,” is true and blue country. Unlike today’s mainstream country stars whose music is riddled with pop influences, Willie Nelson has stuck to his roots, and plays his music with a pureness that one can’t find anywhere else.
Because his music doesn’t derive as strongly from any pop influences, nor does he try to play to that crowd, Nelson appeals to a smaller audience. Real country fans, however, will find that the album’s sweet bluegrass sound is to die for. His voice, warbly, familiar and suave is comforting to hear, and a majority of his tracks are soothing and classic.
“Man with the Blues,” the opener, hits the listener right off the bat with that old-fashioned country sound. Nelson announces that he recorded it “fifty years ago in his friend’s basement,” and it’s apparent that it was created decades ago, but the quick plucking of banjos, of guitars, the quick sliding of the bow over the violin, the smooth voice of Willie Nelson, makes it hard to think that the song is outdated. It is still incredibly catchy and that sweet sound is entrancing.
One of the best tracks on the album, “Drinking Champagne,” is a sweet, wistful song that sounds like it would be played over the jukebox at a bar. The music sways and dances, Nelson’s low voice croons sadly, and the song overall sounds like an embodiment of heartbreak.
“Freight Train Boogie” is one of the fun tunes on the album. The harmonica, guitar and other string instruments culminate to make a really foot-tapping, catchy song. The other tracks on the album fall into line with these two tracks, for they’re either slow and melodious, or catchy and quick. All of the tracks, however, maintain a stellar momentum.
It’s true that Nelson is a little old, as is the sound of his music, but with that unforgettable, untainted country sound he makes seems to transcend time. It may not appeal to many of today’s country listeners, but to those who love that old country flair, “Country Music” will be a favorite.
http://www.highlandernews.org/arts-entertainment/cd-review-country-music-by-willie-nelson-1.1470997
