| One Of a Kind - Big Al Downing | |
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Reviewed by Jolene Downs
Big Al Downing is back and on independent label Platinum Express Records. He is pure, unadulterated country music with no apologies. There is no digitizing or smoothing on Big Al's music. He sings from his heart and soul and what comes out is what he is feeling. Every song on the album was written or co-written by Big Al. He also was very involved in the arranging and producing of the album.
The first song on the album is a testament to how he feels about his country. "Hometown America" is a song about the beauty of the land and what has been given in blood, sweat and tears to enjoy the freedoms we do today.
"Cigarette, A Bottle and A Jukebox" is a perfect country music drinking song. It has average Joe American Farmer all but killing himself to stay afloat, and then watching his wife walk out because she can't handle the harsh reality of life on the farm. You can just visualize him sitting at a bar telling the bartender his story while nursing a bottle.
"Jesus It's Me Johnny," is a touching song about a man's relationship with God. It starts when his mom is sick and he wants Jesus to take care of her when she gets to heaven. He continues to talk to Jesus even though his life is hard. At the end of the song, he is rewarded.
"I'm Too Green To Be Blue" has an almost Ray Charles inflection during the song. He shows us he can sing with soul on this song. It shows us that there are so many tragedies in life with murders and child abuse that it is just plain silly to worry about skin color. Like the beautiful colors in a rainbow, God made his children in different shades.
"Joe's Truck Stop" talks about the Saturday night fun at the local truck stops. All the truckers come in to relax between shifts. There is good-natured flirting and sneaking off with the waitresses. Classic American fun at it's best.
Big Al gets down with "Boogie-Woogie Roll." The horns are heavily featured for this song and the tempo is upbeat and makes you want to get up and move.
"Goodbye My Love" has the Caribbean feel to it with the music. He is gathering the courage to do what is best for them both and leave.
This album has a good mix of sounds. There are ballads, drinking songs and songs with a little rhythm and soul. It is good to have Big Al back on the country music scene.
Song List:
Album cover used with permission of Platinum Express Records.
Sound clips courtesy of Barnes & Noble.