The Truckers’ previous albums have tended to be cinematic in their
way with characters and settings. This set includes two alternate takes
and two covers, including Dylan’s “Like a Rolling Stone” with a boost
from three singers trading verses and, of course, extra guitar.
Admirers may gasp that a song as anthemic as “Rebels” has not surfaced
before. “George Jones Talkin’ Cell Phone Blues” could be the funniest
thing the band has done. Southern hardship and resilience is a
recurring aspect of the Truckers’ richest songs. It takes many
forms, like a soldier being wheeled home in “Mama Bake a Pie.” Even
when cleaning out drawers, the Truckers manage to tell a story.
Like A Rolling Stone – Drive By Truckers
This article appears in Aug 27 – Sep 2, 2009.