Gilmore’s voice is the main reason for my lavish praise. His sweet and, at the same time, haunting tenor tones really give these old songs new life. Gilmore’s voice is so personal and full of emotion, he could make “Happy Birthday to You” sound beautiful.
Jimmie’s and his band’s (which includes Joe Ely) playing is exceptional. These guys really “act like they’ve been there before.” Ely’s arrangements are very clean and crisp. Instruments are used with purpose, and not just as a layering effect as is done on many modern country records. The mix is very clean, too, with just enough of everything at just the right levels.
I don’t know what else to say about Come on Back except that anyone with an interest in country music or Texas country music (yes, there is a difference) should own this record. It’s a personal collection that Jimmie chose to share with the world, and it deserves every bit of attention it gets.
Brian Gilmore would certainly be pleased.
Track list:
1. “Pick Me Up on Your Way Down” by Harlan Howard
2. “Saginaw, Michigan” by Bill Anderson & Don Wayne
3. “Standin' on the Corner (Blue Yodel No. 9)” by Jimmie Rodgers
4. “Don't Let the Stars Get in Your Eyes” by Slim Willett
5. “Four Walls” by George Campbell & Marvin Moore
6. “I'll Never Get Out of This World Alive” by Fred Rose & Hank Williams
7. “Walking the Floor Over You” by Ernest Tubb
8. “I'm Movin' On” by Hank Snow
9. “Don't Worry 'Bout Me” by Marty Robbins
10. “Train of Love” by Johnny Cash
11. “Jimmie Brown the Newsboy” by A.P. Carter
12. “Gotta Travel On” by Paul Clayton, Larry Ehrlich, David Lazar & Tom Six
13. “Peace in the Valley” by Thomas A. Dorsey
Article comments
1 - -E
Great review. I like how you described the change in attitude as well. I might just have to take a look at the CD myself now. :)
2 - Kay Bell
Very nice review. I heard Jimmie Dale on Fresh Air playing some of these songs, and from what I heard your review is right on. On a personal level, as a longtime fan and follower of the Flatlanders, I'm delighted when others recognize their musical contributions. And thanks espcially for noting "... anyone with an interest in country music or Texas country music (yes, there is a difference)..." Vive la difference!