This record shows the delicate and artistic side of southern music. It is not jingoistic or overly nationalistic, descriptors often associated with southern rock.
In her 1968 sophomore album, Gentry shows reverence toward her southern roots without allowing herself to fall into any traps along the way. This is a difficult record to categorize: plenty of soul, country, blues, folk and rock often within the same song. Her musical Influences on this project range from the Appalachian mountains, up and down the Mississippi Delta and westward. If there were ever a record that hits every point of “southern” reference, this is it. Certainly the most shining example I’m aware of.
Artists who praise Gentry’s work range from Mark Knopfler (Dire Straits) to Mercury Rev, the latter of which covered this very album in entirety with help from Norah Jones, Hope Sandoval (Mazzy Star), Lucinda Williams, and Margo Price, to name a few.
If I can bring myself not to keep it in my personal collection, the album will be available in the store shortly. In the meantime, do yourself a favor and give it a stream.