rage recommends
by bill biss
GERSHWIN COUNTRY MICHAEL FEINSTEIN AND MUSICAL GUESTS
The finest and the feistiest of country western singers of note come together to duet with Michael Feinstein on Gershwin Country. It’s a novel idea that should be cherished for its originality with Liza Minnelli as executive producer. Singer, musician and producer Feinstein came up with a “hoot and holler” of a concept with this newly released CD. It takes the beloved songs from George and Ira Gershwin, and presents them in the gentle spirit of Americana and with the kick of a celebration of a county-styled fair that is both romantic and full of rollicking fun. It’s a front porch full of this genre of music and a who’s who of memorable names who join Feinstein in 11 songs by the Gershwin brothers. The main stage of this special recorded event features Dolly Parton, Alison Krauss, Brad Paisley, Lyle Lovett, Rosanne Cash, Vince Gill, Amy Grant and more. Plus, if you love Liza — who doesn’t — she has recorded the closing track “Embraceable You” with Feinstein. Feinstein’s voice excels with just the right touch on each song. He’s quite familiar as a scholar of song in his own right and he’s ready for a rodeo of sounds in all regards. Paisley goes to town with Feinstein on “I Got Rhythm,” and this version is a bootkicking escapade with a tempo janglin’ faster than a silver spur. There is the lonesome trail and the giddy-up exuberance of “Clap Yo’ Hands” in unison with Feinstein and Lovett. My “blue-ribbon” prize goes out to Grant with her tender dish of a duet of “They Can’t Take That Away From Me.” The song is so beautifully presented. Had to go back for seconds and thirds! The selections served up may have you saying, “Who could ask for anything more?” Yes, this is a darn and mighty fine way to rope in a special part of the American songbook and take it for a ride, “country-style.” Sit a spell and enjoy. Available now
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www.rage.lgbt | APRIL 2022
