One of country music's true superstars is back with one of his best collections of tunes ever, coupled with an impressive interactive scrapbook, all on one CD. Originally available only on the Internet, the CD's interactive features include interviews with everyone from
Johnny Cash and
Waylon Jennings to George W. Bush. But it is the music here that takes center stage. The songs on
Me and the Drummer are a flashback to a simpler time, reminiscent of the Western-flavored tunes featured on his
Red Headed Stranger and
Tougher Than Leather releases. The lyrics are compelling,
Nelson's vocals are as smooth as ever before, and the music provided by
the Offenders is Texas cool. They operate on the "less-is-more" principal, and it is the perfect compliment for
Nelson's distinct vocal style.
"Rainy Day Blues" is a shuffling country-blues with a lot of
Nelson's trademark acoustic lead picking, and "I'd Rather You Didn't Love Me" is pure
Nelson at his best. From the swing of "I Guess I've Come to Live Here in Your Eyes" to the waltz of "Me and the Drummer," this is
Willie Nelson at his honky tonkin' best. ~ Michael Smith, All Music Guide