Alan Jackson
What I Do
Arista
Alan Jackson delivers another strong album, featuring tunes about love ("Too Much of a Good Thing"), loss ("Monday Morning Church"), and unscrupulous auto mechanics ("The Talkin' Song Repair Blues"). This is not the most compelling batch of songs that Jackson has recorded, but his authoritative vocals and Keith Stegall's tasteful production are a reliable, winning combination. The closer, "To Do What I Do," is a live cut in which Jackson graciously thanks his fans for their support.
Travis Tritt
My Honky Tonk History
Columbia
Travis Tritt and John Mellencamp may disagree on some political issues, but they sound great together on the philosophical duet "What Say You." Tritt's latest disc also includes the smoldering "Too Far To Turn Around," which has Gretchen Wilson on background vocals. Over the course of his 15-year career, rarely has Tritt given a better vocal performance than he does on "Circus Leaving Town."
Various Artists
Hard-Headed Woman: A Celebration of Wanda Jackson
Bloodshot
This spirited tribute will accomplish its intended goal of inspiring fans to seek out the original recordings of rockabilly pioneer Wanda Jackson. There are no glossy productions here, just heartfelt performances from alternative-country singers such as Neko Case, Rosie Flores, and Kelly Hogan. Some of these acts faithfully create a retro vibe, while others devise dramatic new arrangements (such as Jane Baxter Miller's acoustic take on "One Day at a Time").
