Willie Nelson's idiosyncratic vocal style has always been heavily influenced by the blues, just as much as it has been by country, pop, and folk, but he'd never recorded a straight blues album until 2000's
Milk Cow Blues. Any longtime
Nelson fan will undoubtedly be quietly thrilled with the idea of a straight blues album, and the very first notes make it seem like the record will deliver on its promise. Then
Francine Reed starts singing. Yes,
Milk Cow Blues is designed as a star-studded duets album, which is apparently the only way major labels think a new album from a veteran superstar will attract press attention and fan curiosity. Sometimes, the concept works, at least commercially, as proved by the stunning success of
Santana's Supernatural. Here, the idea doesn't work quite as well, with the exception of the appearance of
Dr. John. Nelson is in great voice here, and his three solo tracks are outstanding. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine