True Treasures
Country Rewind, 2022
8/10
An important part of country music history in both music and TV, Leroy Van Dyke sees some of his work packed with additional electric and acoustic guitars, upright bass, keyboards, drums and background vocals thanks to Paul Martin, who also serves as engineer and remix engineer for this project.
“Walk On By” gets the listen off to a twangy and scrappy start, where Van Dyke’s playful vocals are met with a very fluid delivery of drums and guitars, and “Oklahoma Hills” bops and shakes with a very dance floor friendly spirit.
Further on, “San Antonio Rose” showcases Van Dyke’s expressive and inviting pipes amid the punchy country melodies, while “Be A Good Girl” uses backing vocals strategically alongside the dynamic musicianship that makes this the album’s best.
Closer to the end, the upbeat and tuneful “The Other Boys Are Talking” offers a very smooth and rock’n’roll shuffle, and “Ol’ Man Mose” exits with both singing and talking from Van Dyke, where his classic country ways make a lasting impression.
Van Dyke’s career began in 1956 and he’s still at it today. These unreleased treasures have been brought up to 21st century standards, and do a great job of illustrating his long running and timeless talents.
Travels well with: Webb Pierce- A Country Boy Singing His Heart Out; Bob Luman- Honky Tonk Man