Mr. Country
Country Rewind, 2019
8/10
Even though he passed away nearly a decade ago, fans of classic country aren’t going to pass up an opportunity to hear Carl Smith tunes, and with Mr. Country we’re treated to selections that were a bit obscure and/or never commercially released.
“Are You Teasing Me” gets the album off to a classic country start with aching pedal steel and a twangy, shuffling setting of warm sounds, and “If Teardrops Were Pennies” follows with an emotive, soulful spirit.
Elsewhere, “Deep Water” and “Loose Talk” move with a quick pace and soothing backing vocals that could soundtrack a barn dance, and in the middle “There Stands The Glass” illustrates Smith’s strong vocal prowess with a retro feeling.
Near the end, “Foggy River” recruits intricate guitar work on a melodic and rural highlight, and the ballad-esque “The Best Years Of Your Life” tugs on the heartstrings with its touching delivery. The album ends on “The Way I Lose My Mind”, where Smith parallels legends like Presley and Cash with grace and much timeless skill.
A legend who had hits across 3 decades, this recording was culled from master tapes that were in storage for 50 years, and those with an ear for vintage or modern country will find much to enjoy here.
Travels well with: Conway Twitty- Country; Waylon Jennings- The One And Only