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 Randy Thompson -
That's Not Me

Randy Thompson - That's Not Me

As an impressionable youth, Randy Thompson got the privilege of hearing John Jackson play slide guitar with a butter knife in his classroom. Musically, Randy Thompson lists some greats among his influences including Hank Williams, Waylon Jennings, Joe Ely, and Steve Young. The influences show in his musical playing, his songwriting, and his overall approach to his craft. Laying honesty and truth in  often dark lyrics that seem to etch themselves in the memory banks of the listener.

Writing 6 tunes, co-writing 2 more, and adding a brief version of Steve Young's "The Whole World". While diving completely into this CD you can hear some of the influences, but also a uniqueness that drives That's Not Me into the country mainstream. Absorbing the music you can hear Steve Earle's melodrama with a gentle voice that overcomes the lowered spirit. Not an incredibly upbeat collection lyrically, although the musical tempo rides well through each track, just when you are feeling a bit down he picks you back up again.

9 tracks that are sure to garner some awareness to the talented singer-songwriter that weaves some wonderful storytelling in the mix. At times a driving production that had me sensing the outlaw country, while he can also sooth the beast within with Don Williams like ease. A great new CD that will keep you listening by the sheer familiarity of the tracks that could very easily fit in the Americana playlists as well as conventional radio.

Getting a glimpse into the heart and soul of Randy Thompson through his words and music, you almost feel as though your listening in on private conversations between friends at the local bar. On That's Not Me, Randy Thompson bears his soul for the world. "Sound of the Rain", "If Love Is What You Want", and "Only One Way" shine brightly through with melodies, vocals and depth, and could easily be played on any country radio format.

   ( 4.5 Stars out of 6 ) 

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