MUSIC REVIEWS
Willie Nelson - Countryman
Matt Jameson
After a decade of marinating in it’s own juices, Willie Nelson’s reggae set is now complete. This project realizes a dream of country and reggae being melded into a hybrid style. It features a couple cover songs from reggae’s past, as well as many new tracks. As usual Willie delivers his signature country-toned vocals, but this time with a Jamaican flare.
I can’t really call this out and out reggae because the country vibe is so present that the music tends to often lean toward the twangy side. Use of a backing steel guitar manages to mask many of the roots reggae feel, and when combined with the standard Willie Nelson vocals it still feels very country.
I cannot say that I am extremely impressed, yet at the same time I applaud Willie’s courage for trying something truly different. Not an album I would listen to more than a few times other than to initially experience for it myself.
However I feel that true fans of the old school western style of country will love this release. Especially Willie’s usual fan base. This for them, will be a great departure from his traditional sound and may in fact cause them to seek out and listen to traditional reggae. Willie’s vocal talent is very present, although at times it sounds as though he had a difficult time melding it with the slower time signature of reggae music.
All things considered I give this album a 6 out of 10. 4 point for originality, 1 for style, and 1 for pure shock value. I recommend previewing this album before you decided to buy, unless you are already a fan.
