Review: “Troubadour” by George Strait

The latest CD release by George Strait - “Troubadour” exhibits content that is a continuation of the superlative career of George Strait. His fabulous instrumental support is reflective of production processes in Country Music that go beyond just “Country”. Some of the finest steel guitar, lead guitar, and violin playing provides counterpoint to Strait’s trademark baritone voice. The vocal harmony parts are presented, always, in proper balance (if slightly subdued) and the rhythm section support always enhances.

“Troubadour’s” material is equal to that found on the “George Strait 50 Number Ones” and “George Strait 22 More Hits” CD releases and touches upon that known array of country subjects. “Troubadour” presents a couple of duets. Most notable is “House of Cash”, where Strait teams up with Patty Loveless to pay honor to Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash. The tune has some interesting twists; almost a Cajun sound, at times. ”Brothers of the Highway” is a catchy trucker song and “House With No Doors” tells the classic country tearful tale of lost love. ”It Was Me” is a sensitive and beautiful ballad (one of the best tunes on the CD) and on a par with “I Cross My Heart” or “The Chair” from earlier George Strait releases. ”West Texas Town” establishes that Texas identity, while “If Heartaches Were Horses” puts us back on the range. “I Saw God Today” touches on faith-based lyrics, much like “Love Without End, Amen” or the beautiful “The Best Day” -both from earlier releases. Lyrics always tell a story and are never offensive.

Musically, George Strait is a joy to listen. His vocal style continues to be musical, sensitive, yes stylized–but artfully so. The steel guitar contributions (Paul Franklin on this round) are always terrific and the Violin (Fiddle-Stuart Duncan) capture the required mood of many tunes. The several guitarists (Steve Gibson, Brent Mason, Mac McAnally) fit into the mix tastefully. The rhythm section is rounded out with Drums (Eddie Bayers), Bass (Glenn Worf), Piano (Matt Rollings) and contributions on B-3 (Steve Nathan). Production credits credit the mix to Chuck Ainlay and Jim Cooley. The mixes sound great, equally, on the car stereo and on the home system.

George Strait with his talented musicians in and out of the studio and coupled with superlative production, arranging and final mixes, sets the benchmark for country music recording. “Troubadour” is a winner.