Personnel: George Strait (vocals); Steve Gibson (acoustic guitar, electric guitar); Bryan Sutton (acoustic guitar); Brent Mason (electric guitar); Paul Franklin (steel guitar); Stuart Duncan (mandolin, fiddle); Nashville String Machine (strings); Matt Rollings (piano, synthesizer); Steve Nathan (Hammond b-3 organ); Glenn Worf (bass guitar); Eddie Bayers (drums); Wes Hightower, Marty Slayton (background vocals). Recording information: OceanWay, Nashville, Tennessee. On SOMEWHERE DOWN IN TEXAS, the ever-reliable George Strait stays the course he'd charted for years prior, which is to say that he once again manages to combine mainstream appeal with a classy, understated country style that makes no secret of his roots in George Jones, Merle Haggard, and the like. Unlike nearly every other country star of his era, Strait never comes anywhere near the rock trappings or power ballads that are de rigeur in so much contemporary country. There may be the occasional extraneous orchestration here and there, but any album that opens with "If the Whole World Was a Honky Tonk" and lives up to the title must have its heart in the right place. Along the way, there are echoes of Roger Miller's slightly jazzy sound ("The Seashores of Old Mexico") and Dwight Yoakam's neo-Bakersfield boogie ("High Tone Woman"), some strikingly inventive harmonic twists ("Good News Bad News"), and a broken-hearted ballad that's arguably the album's highlight ("Ready For the End of the World"). Ultimately, what truly amazes is the way Strait makes putting together such a sophisticated, pleasure-giving album seem so easy. The seller, ihateyoureasybutton, assumes full responsibility for the content of this listing and the item offered.Read full review
I wanted "Seashores of Old Mexico". Never heard of George Strait, started listening to country music while Charlie, the contractor, worked on remodeling our bathrooms. Started to like the stories. George Strait sang, and the instrumental to "Old Mexico" was too much to let get away. Found the album name. The entire album is good for replay, after replay. The songs, make me smile, dance, and I feel really good when listening. Brings back so many different memories. And, not to mention that the man has a fantastic group of musicians, sound effects are superb, and the man's voice is a pleasure to hear. Could not find the album in a store, so, there is always eBay!
I have three copies of this CD and am about to buy another since I gave one away to a favorite restaurant/bar to add to their player. Tried and true, I have everything Mr Strait has ever released, and have never been disappointed. This is easily the best Mr Strait has ever sounded; his voice has grown richer and his vocals are amazing. Add Dean Dillon and other excellent writers with their exceptional talents, and the best studio musicians Nashville has to offer, and you have a wonderful Country album to listen to, over and over again. I never tire of listening to George Strait, and he always leaves me feeling better, with a smile. This album has become my favorite... until Mr Strait releases his next CD.
I love George Strait, I have his albums, cassettes, cds, I didn't have this CD, Im so glad I got it. Sounds great. Now I just need Take me to Texas CD
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Great music and quality
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
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