Rating: 7.5 out of 10
John Fogerty's first solo effort, after the untimely demise of Creedence Clearwater Revival. However, he wanted to make it appear that a band was still in existence, and he conceived of The Blue Ridge Rangers, although he performed every instrument himself! From the amazing Creedence catalog, we already knew he was an accomplished guitar, harmonica, saxophone, and keyboard (piano and organ) player, but now we learn he also plays drums, bass, banjo, and the fiddle well! The only thing Fogerty didn't do was write the songs - this was a tribute album honoring some of his early influences. Personally, I would have much preferred a rhythm and blues album than a collection of country and gospel songs. Although I enjoy these tunes more than most other country music I've heard, they still don't approach the excellence of the Creedence material he did before. My parents, both big country and western fans, absolutely love this album, and play it much more often than I do.
Blue Ridge Mountain Blues (2:28) - Lots of fiddle and banjo playing highlight this quick, rollicking tune, one of the best on the disc. If all the tracks had this upbeat attitude, I would love the album.
Somewhere Listening (For My Name) (2:36) - With it's background organ and "chorus" (actually, they're all Fogerty's voice), you'd think this gospel song was taken from an actual Southern church! His gravelly vocals are very uplifting.
You're the Reason (3:12) - I once read a review that said Fogerty's voice wasn't well-suited for country musci - I think this song proves the critic wrong! The ending is too long and weak, but still an enjoyable song.
Jambalaya (On the Bayou) (3:13) - John Fogerty's version of the Hank Williams classic is another of the standouts. He shows his prowess with a drum kit - Doug Clifford is hardly missed! He almost screams the chorus, to perfection.
She Thinks I Still Care (2:55) - Another famous country song, I think this is a bit slow, but Fogerty's bass is very nice. I can't decide if the title is sarcastic - does he still care for her?
California Blues (Blue Yodel #4) (3:03) - An awkward title, reminiscent of "Rude Awakening #2", and not much better. I can't ever seem to dig this tune, but I'm not sure what's wrong with it. The horn section shows Fogerty can play even more instruments, but I can't identify them.
Workin' On a Building (4:31) - Another gospel song that could've come from a church. I love the multitude of Fogerty voices at the beginning, and his extended "I" at the third verse, but the guitar chords are screechy and annoying. An overlong fade-off as well.
Please Help Me, I'm Falling (2:46) - Too slow, but Fogerty's voice is excellent, and the piano and steel guitar are delightful. Nothing overly bad, and still much better than the dribble country stations play.
Have Thine Own Way, Lord (2:58) - Honestly, I hate this song. It's by far the worst in the John Fogerty catalog. It has nothing going for it - slow, boring, sub-par vocals, and bad lyrics (though I'm not very religious).
I Ain't Never (2:47) - Thankfully, another great song. The dual lead vocal is well done, and the instruments blend together well. The guitar is given more emphasis, which is always a plus in my books.
Hearts of Stone (2:09) - This may be my favorite song on the album. It has a wonderful rhythm and a variety of musical interplays. Not many lyrics, but Fogerty belts them our well. My only complaint: not long enough!
Today I Started Loving You Again (3:15) - This is one of my mother's all-time favourite country songs, and she loves Fogerty's agonizingly slow rendition. Predictably, I don't. As usual with tedious tunes, Fogerty's superb vocals provide the high point.
Rating: 7.5 out of 10
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