TURNTABLE TUESDAY - Plenty Good People

This week I have the pleasure of reviewing a new CD by two of my favorite Texas artists. This project between W. C. Jameson and Richard Dobson has been a long-time dream of friends. Good things come to those who wait. If you've waited for an artist to sing about the things you feel deep in your soul, wait no more. 

With the exception of Me and Paul (written by their friend Willie Nelson), every song on the CD was written by W.C, Richard or both. The other noteable pen came from Charley Stefl on A Step Away From Homeless

Each track on PLENTY GOOD PEOPLE is a testament to what real country is. If you're not sure, I know a gentleman that will tell you 'it's all about the poetry' in a song. Oxford Dictionaries defines poetry as: literary work in which special intensity is given to the expression of feelings and ideas by the use of distinctive style and rhythm

Mix that definition with the deep voice of W. C. that draws you into the song with the Guthrie tones of Richard and you have a combination not to be matched. Lynette Perkins, Franci Jarrard and Rick Dinsmore add that little something extra in harmony vocals.  I found the following video on YouTube showcasing Richard Dobson with Lynette, Franci and Stephen Jarrard:

While not everyone can agree on what country music is today, I'm going with a song that tells me a story - without a lot of repetitive wording. PLENTY GOOD PEOPLE gives me that as well as warm feeling of having spent an evening with friends. 

UPDATE: I just found out this CD debuted at #15 on the EuroAmericana charts! WC and Richard debuted the album at Poodie's Hilltop Roadhouse in Spicewood TX last night. Backed by a 7-piece band, the place was standing-room only! See, you really want this CD!  You can order through AMAZON or by contacting WC through his  WEBSITE.

For great lyrics, heritage and friendship, I am tipping my hat:

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TURNTABLE TUESDAY - Here in the Garden

HERE IN THE GARDEN By Richard Dobson is a perfect example of why I love Texas. 

From the first strains of the title track til the last note of Gone to Texas, Richard weaves a comforting web of pure tones that only add to the stories he has to tell. Whether they be about lovers (The Moon is for Lovers), annoying birds (Black Crow) or shopping for suspenders ( Tractor Supply), each tune draws you in.  One to Run the River With is reminiscent of a Mike Blakely song I love. Again… a story told from a different perspective but the core is still the same… trust and friendship – knowing who you can count on. 

Marketing is a big part of how well an album does. I’ve seen everything over the years. Everything except liner notes about the song. The inside cover of this tri-fold package tells you a quick sentence blurb about what was going through Richard’s mind when he wrote each song. I love this concept not because he explains the song but because even if I’d not met Richard in person, talked with him, this little extra something gave me an insight to the man behind the music. 

This CD is long on talent from a man who lives life… soaking up every step he takes. And we are blessed he shares the journey with the rest of us. 

I give this CD 

You can buy this and other CDs by Richard Dobson at:

My Texas Music: http://www.mytexasmusic.com/richarddobson/

OUT OF THE CHUTE - Richard Dobson

Few musicians have led the life similar to Richard J. Dobson. He is one of the most revered songwriters throughout the world. His words are poetic, descriptive and soulful. He is a master storyteller. Nanci Griffith is right on target when she refers to Richard as "the Hemingway of Country Music."

Born in Tyler, Texas, Richard honed his skills with folks like Townes Van Zant, Guy Clark and Steve Earle. His songs have been recorded by Lacy J. Dalton (Old Friends), Nanci Griffith (Ballad of Robin Winter-Smith).  Most recently his song Baby Ride Easy appeared on the lost tracks of Johnny Cash - Out Among the Stars. The song (a duet number) has previously been recorded by Carlene Carter/ Dave Edmunds and (the late) Billie Jo Spears/ Del Reeves

His most recent CD, Gulf Coast Tales, is a collection of songs based on his time in the Gulf Coast of Texas and MS.

Though Richard calls Switzerland home (since 1999), he still makes frequent trips stateside to visit friends, play music and write... always observing and writing.

You can find out more about Richard and his music by visiting any of the sites listed below.

Website: http://www.richard-j-dobson.ch/
Facebook: Richard J. Dobson
Reverbnation: http://www.reverbnation.com/richarddobson
My Texas Music: http://www.mytexasmusic.com/richarddobson/