The last time Nelson recorded the American Songbook, it was on
1978’s Stardust. It not only got there years before Rod Stewart
and other reformed rockers tackled the same material, but it also
stands as a genre standard, a work of casual elegance by an artist
who’s made a career out of exploring American music in all of its
complex shades. Stardust is also Nelson’s greatest singular
achievement. This sequel is more polished than its predecessor, with
jazz producer Tommy LiPuma replacing Stardust producer
Booker T. Jones’ more soulful interpretations of songs your grandma and
grandpa used to get busy to back in the day. But American
Classic has such easygoing charm, it’s easy to overlook its flaws
(duets with Diana Krall and Norah Jones, a jazzy take on “Always on My
Mind,” one of Nelson’s few pop hits). Nelson’s unfussy readings of “The
Nearness of You,” “Fly Me to the Moon” and “Come Rain or Shine” may not
replace beloved versions by Frank Sinatra or Ray Charles, but his
acquaintance and respect for these classics is evident. —
Gallucci
This article appears in Aug 26 – Sep 1, 2009.
