Jack Clement - Guess Things Happen That Way

Just like that old violin, Jack Clement has just gotten better. A giant in the business as a songwriter and producer, this is Jack's only solo album as a performer. But has he been around? Oh, yes. You may not realize it, but you've heard his music. He produced awesome early rock by Roy Orbison and Jerry Lee Lewis. He discovered Charley Pride and made him a legend. His songs have been recorded by George Jones, Garth Brooks, and countless others. But guess what? Jack can sing 'em himself, too.

I have to admit, when the disc first came my way, I didn't recognize his name. I should have. I've been an Elvis fan since I was eleven, and it's a name closely associated with Elvis. Not to mention more than half of the rest of Nashville and Memphis. Yikes. Boy, was my face red when I was reminded! Of course, Jack's usually been seen behind the scenes, and I have to admit, when I was younger, I paid a lot less attention to the other names on the discs. I know better now. Of course, Jack's name is everyone on this disc, so it's kinda hard to miss.

With an infectious enthusiasm for life and music, Jack Clement approaches each song with, dare I say it, a song in his heart. Whether crooning "Dreaming My Dreams With You" (a rare one he didn't write) or happily clowning through the delightful "Drinking Carrot Juice," there's a charm to Jack's voice, a fun and frolicsome sound that dares you to judge. He doesn't care. He's having fun.

Some of the cream of Nashville came in to sit with Jack while he was recording this, including Tim O'Brien, The Jordainaires, Billy Burnette, Ronnie McCoury, Jolene Kay, and of course Johnny Cash. The music, the humor, and the sheer delight makes this album just a plain old fun listen. The good lyrics and sharp musical quality makes it worth that listen, and then some. Sometimes older is better.