Like Red On a Rose

Alan Jackson is one of the purest (and most successful) country vocalists of the past two decades, so a full album of ballads about love and relationships might seem an odd direction – until you hear it. Only “A Woman’s Love” was written by Jackson, but this material suits him perfectly. He's said that Alison Krauss, who produced the album, chose the songs, and if that’s true, she did an excellent job. And though Krauss does contribute some fine harmony vocals, there’s not a touch of bluegrass here; in fact, the only thing patently country about the record is Jackson’s rich twang. Performed by an impeccable band that that includes Dan Tyminski, Jerry Douglas, and Ron Block of Krauss’ Union Station, Like Red on a Rose is a middle-aged man’s reflection on his life thus far. These are songs about growing older and taking stock of one’s actions and decisions, and for the most part he sounds content with what he’s done. But that doesn’t mean it was easy, and his exploration of that middle ground is what makes this album so satisfying and sincere. This is a beautiful album by an artist with the sensitivity and honesty to pull it off.