Bily Lee Riley - Hillbilly Rockin' Man

This is Billy's first country album in quite some time, but he holds hid own with a classic country sound that is sure to please fans of the classic style. Billy is no new comer to music, if you don't recognize his name right off, Billy Lee was introduced to the world by the legendary Sun Records, as a successor to the king, Elvis Presley. His vocals are pleasant enough here, and like George Jones, Billy Lee Riley seems to get better with age. The songs
however may not fit in with some of the radio formats today, with the exception of roots or Americana.

Billy is probably best known for his "Red Hot" on the sun label. I think Billy has a good enough style, reminiscent vocals that flirt with the 70s Waylon Jennings (especially on "I'm So Glad She's My Woman".) Billy incorporates all of the techniques that made Outlaw country so fresh in the 1970s. Although his vocals are a bit weathered, his charisma and style do shine through. Billy has
had many ups and downs in the music biz, and for the lover of classic country this is a gem.

Many performers when they get on in years try to update their sound to lend itself to the newer style. Not Billy, he stuck to his guns, I am just not so sure how this classic style will fit into the mix with the modern country scene. Solid songwriting is a plus here, simple yet catchy for the true country fans. Billy's CD is a nostalgic trip down memory lane for all who don't mind taking the trip. All the elements are here from drinking, cheating, momma and trucks.

I recommend the CD by a true legend in the field, but cannot give it my highest rating. "Hillbilly Rockin' Man" is a good country record, and I hope people will search out Billy for a trip to the glory days of country. The lyrics are thought out and simple at the same time, the music is drawn back and that just makes the CD more fun. Standouts here include "The Bottle", "Hillbilly Rockin' Man", Please Don't Play Anymore(hurtin' Songs)", and the name dropping "The
Songwriter". Worth your while.

 ( 4 Stars out of 6 )