Released on Oct. 21 by Country Rewind Records, The Lost Nashville Sessions revisits the work of gritty, honky-tonk, outlaw country singer Waylon Jennings.
Waylon Jennings was an important player in the outlaw country music movement. Unfortunately, he passed away on Feb. 13 of 2002, due to complications from diabetes. However, his music lives on in records like The Lost Nashville Sessions. Released on Oct. 21 by Country Rewind Records, this album revisits the gritty, honky-tonk, outlaw country singer’s sound.
The Lost Nashville Sessions is comprised of 14 short tracks, originally recorded for a radio-based military recruitment program in 1970. Prior to this new release, backup instrumentals and vocals were added to bolster the sound.
Exploring the facets of Waylon Jennings sound
The record opens with “Only Daddy That’ll Walk The Line.” A distinctly ‘60s country song, it spotlights Jennings’ guitar skills. This up-tempo tune is followed immediately by a somber and country-blues track, “The Chokin’ Kind.” A heart-on-his-sleeve style song, this piece explores the depth of Jennings' voice.
The Lost Nashville Sessions touches on something that is beautifully done in outlaw country – couching sorrow in slightly humorous and very relatable lines. This is seen in "Stop The World (And Let Me Off)." Next, the record turns outwardly emotional in “Anita, You’re Dreaming.” When possible, this track is best enjoyed while slow dancing under moonlight.
A highlight on The Lost Nashville Sessions is “MacArthur Park.” This is the song that won Jennings a Grammy in 1969. A compelling and full track, this song once again spotlights the depth of the artist’s performance.
Each minute and a half track points to a facet of what made Waylon Jennings an engaging artist. Every song is marked by his signature voice, which was deep and unpolished in a compelling way. Jennings' guitar work shines brightly on this record as well – with a dusty country rock sensibility. Fans of country in general and outlaw country in particular will enjoy this album.