by Ron Wynn
It's an indication of how out of whack the country boom has gotten at major labels when a proven giant like Willie Nelson must cut tremendous records for tiny independents. There are wonderful originals and sympathetic, engaging covers, Nelson approaches his Stardust peak vocally, and a great cast plays these songs with consummate skill and ease, blending country, Western swing, jazz and pop elements. Those with rigid definitions of country may wonder how a CD with &Sentimental Journey& and the title track fits into the genre; anyone with open ears knows the answer.