February 10, 2009 Music » Hit & Run Reviews

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CD Review: Willie Nelson, Asleep at the Wheel's Willie and the Wheel 

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The Deal: Willie Nelson joins up with Asleep at the Wheel for a collection of songs picked by the late Jerry Wexler.

The Good: The album kicks off with the uptempo, jazzy "Hesitation Blues." While the instrumentation may not come across as country right off the bat, you have to remember this is Western swing. Nelson's voice is in fine form on the album, and works well with the horns. The moments of chorus sound like classic harmonies along the lines of a barbershop quartet. The entire album has an old-time feel to it, but without sounding like you had to blow the dust off it. While the music remains simple at times, there are plenty of guitar, fiddle and horn solos that show the talent of Asleep at the Wheel. Only a song or two could be considered slow by swing standards – "I'm Sittin' On Top of the World" may have a steady groove to it, but playful banter between Nelson and singer Elizabeth McQueen keeps you focused. The instrumental "South" features the addition of the piano of Paul Shaffer and guitar of Vince Gill.

The Bad: Not a thing.

The Verdict: It's hard to listen to the album and not have a smile on your face – especially during moments of Nelson singing, "I ain't gonna give nobody none of my jellyroll." Almost sounds like Willie Nelson singing with a countrified version of the Squirrel Nut Zippers at times. Enjoyable from start to finish.

Bismeaux; Release date: Feb. 3, 2009

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