The Country Blues
Country Rewind, 2020
8/10
A veteran country star who’s been a true road warrior with long bouts of touring and has had his songs recorded by Willie Nelson, Mel Tillis and Connie Smith among others, on The Country Blues the icon proves just why he’s such an important part of Country and Western music.
Burns gets the album off to rowdy start with the busy “Runnin’ Drugs Out Of Mexico”, that’s part rock’n’roll, part country barnyard brawl, and the theme continues with the spirited melodies of the infectious “Mexican Woman”.
In the middle, “Stranger” uses fiddles strategically in the rootsy atmosphere, while “The Prison Song” flows with a breezy delivery amid vivid storytelling that certainly could be autobiographical, if you know what I mean. “You Lied Our Love Away” then sits firmly in classic country territory as pretty female vocals accompany Burns on the album standout.
Near the end, “Wild Dogs” turns darker in tone with a lush display meticulous song craft, and “Honky Tonk Boots” finishes out the listen dance friendly in a blistering pace of country shuffling alongside acrobatic picking.
Burns has lived a life full enough for 2 people, and he’s got stories to tell that you’ll want to hear. Thankfully, he’s well versed in country sounds- both past and present- and his execution is something we’ll never tire of.
Travels well with: Rex Allen Jr.- Then & Now; Sons Of The Pioneers- The Lost Masters