Jimmy LaFave - Texoma (CD)

All Music Guide

Jimmy LaFave built his reputation as an interrupter of Dylan songs and as an up-and-coming singer/songwriter from the Austin music scene. On his sixth album, Texoma, he is joined by a talented band and some excellent background singers (the Burns Sisters). The material features a number of covers and originals, and ranges from the quiet "Never Is There a Moment" to the slow rocking blues of "Bad Bad Girl." "Woody Guthrie" is a folk-tribute to an idol, with a soulful vocal and some nice dobro by Larry Wilson. There is a fresh take on John Phillips' classic, "San Francisco," and an upbeat "This Glorious Day," a song full of hope and joy. "Elvis Loved His Mama" may remind the listener more of Jerry Lee Lewis than the King, but either way the song works as a quirky, funny homage to the roots of rock roll. Glancing at other titles like "Rock and Roll Music to the World" and "On the Road to Rock and Roll," one might gather that while LaFave is a clever songwriter, he also enjoys a little st...raightforward Memphis rock roll. This roots approach is also given its due when it comes to LaFave's considerable guitar skills. "Emotionally Yours" is the obligatory Dylan song, and it's nice that LaFave chose a less recognized -- and less cliché -- song from the master. Texoma is fine release, filled with good songs, fitting arrangements, and country soul. LaFave's fans and followers of the Texas country-folk scene should enjoy this one. - Ronnie Lankford, Jr., All Music Guide Read more Less