Alan Jackson 'Precious Memories'

NASHVILLE, TN. (Arista Records) - Alan Jackson - ever the country music classicist - restores two traditions at once, offering an album of faith while at the same time paring his accompaniment to an earthier acoustically-inclined core.
This collection of fifteen hymns draws its power entirely from Jackson's commitment and the songs' timeless qualities, forgoing any calculated commercial intentions.
Originally recorded as a personal gift to Jackson's mother, the album's public release has brought an unexpected dividend, debuting at No 1 on the country album chart, while simultaneously topping Billboard's Christian album chart and landing at No 4 on Billboard's album chart.
CD buyers are tapping into the heartfelt, private nature of the performances, with Jackson's voice and his harmony singers strikingly framed by gentle arrangements of acoustic guitar, piano and organ. The material rings with the familiarity of regular worship services, and will be dear to those raised in the faith; those who spent their Sundays elsewhere will find inspiration in these classic songs. One might be inclined to think of these performances as a family living-room sing, were the family not so unusually talented.
Still, the spare arrangements and Jackson's devotion allow the songs to take center stage, with the singer's luminous talent providing the halo.