Alan Jackson

Under The Influence

The last remaining mainstream standard-bearer

Review Score:

(10/10)
Mainstream country music has lost its soul. Independent labels still produce authentic country in its many guises, but fail to gain the mass radio plays that allow dull rock acts in cowboy hats to dominate the top of the country charts. The one exception is Alan Jackson. To prove that point, he released this superb covers album which pays tribute to his musical heroes. Toby Keith or Lonestar fans may wonder where the Eagles cover version is (and who on earth is Charley Pride). Alan Jackson knows and we should be grateful that he did include Kiss An Angel Good Mornin' ahead of Hotel California. This is a rare example of a country covers album that actually covers real country music. There are classics originally recorded by Jim Ed Brown, Gene Watson, Merle Haggard and George Jones. Alan Jackson's rich baritone effortlessly brings these songs into the current market place and deservedly into the spotlight after years of neglect. Jackson should be applauded for his choice of material, which could be considered daring. Someone should now persuade George Strait to return to this type of material, for even he has veered away from the mainly traditional music that once charaterised his music. Alan Jackson remains true to real country and should have the support of every fan of the music.

More Reviews: