Josh Turner - Live At The Ryman
By: Jolene Downs, CSO Contributing Journalist  

This is an album I've been looking forward to from the time I heard about the project, and I was like a kid in a candy store when I tore open the envelope  and spotted Josh Turner Live at the Ryman nestled in the bubble wrap.

Sometimes I'll let a CD sit on the table for a day or so before finding a quiet time to listen, but not so with this one. I had to listen to it as soon as possible. Turner has a very distinctive voice he combines with a talent for writing about real life and the ability to deliver a song in a way that once you've heard him, you are hooked. He has a quiet and unassuming demeanor that endears him to a large and loyal fan base. His deep faith is apparent in the majority of his song choices and he tends to sing songs with a positive message instead of the "lying, cheating, done me wrong songs" that are typically associated with country music. It is artists like Turner who are bringing the positive realities into the spotlight instead of dwelling on the negatives. And fans are appreciating the music. His first album, Long Black Train, went platinum. His second album, Your Man, was recently certified double platinum. The first single from his upcoming third studio album has already impacted radio in a big way. There is no question that Turner is here to stay.

With his positive outlook, traditional sound and commitment to family, a partnership with Cracker Barrel Restaurants came as no surprise. Cracker Barrel became the sponsor for Turner's first recorded live concert which took place at the Ryman Auditorium. This album is one that any fan of country music would enjoy listening to frequently. It kicks off with "Way Down South" and is nothing but pure toe-tapping entertainment until the final strains of "Long Black Train" fade away. There are twelve tracks on the album along with an instrumental introduction of his band, The Tonkin' Honkies. He covers Merle Haggard's "Silver Wings," Hank Sr.'s "I'll Never Get Out of This World Alive" and George Jones' "He Stopped Loving Her  Today." The rest of the tracks were a good mix of songs from both of his albums. Through it all, Turner shares a little banter and a few stories with his audience. It is a great look at the energy that happens in a live Josh Turner show and if that gravely voice doesn't send tingles all the way to your toes when he goes deep, there is just something wrong. Do yourself a huge favor and go grab a copy. You will not be disappointed.