The latest album from Myron Walden is called Countryfied, and it’s a rare, smooth, saxophone-driven gem. Countryfied could not be more of a fitting title; the album is packed with flavors of southern gospel, blues, and the timelessly cool Stax records style soul. It is at times, an upbeat, righteous and exhilarating, and at others, seamlessly sultry and expressive. Myron’s timing, groove and soul are impeccable.
Around here, we’re firm believers that if you don’t consciously notice through a track that nobody has sang yet, it’s a sure sign of a good song, since the instruments must be that engaging. In Myron’s case, it took 3 tracks to realize that not one word had been uttered. We feel that speaks volumes to not only Walden’s skills, but also the expert lineup of musicians: Oz Noy laying down an beautiful guitar compliment to Myron’s tenor sax, Ron Oswanski adding a solid gospel and soul feel on the organ, and Kenneth Salters laying down a heavily Jazzy percussive beat.
We firmly recommend this album for anyone that likes the saxophone, country sounds and deeply soulful but smooth Jazz. With the broad range of southern influences that Countryfied brings to the table, it will be easy for almost anyone to find something to enjoy in this album.
Track Listings
1. Countryfied
2. What Will Be Will Be
3. I Cain’t Do Nomore
4. Through It All
5. Between Us
6. When My Body Gets Weak
7. Double Dippin’
8. Before You
9. I Get Lonely Sometimes
10. If It Wasn’t For My Pride
11. Happy Feet
