Wanda Jackson

I Remember Elvis

(Cleopatra)

I normally avoid Elvis tribute albums; they compel me to hie toward the original for refuge. Robert Gordon's 2007 It's Now Or Never was an exception. Gordon's interpretations were alive and magnetic.

So are these covers. Wanda's personal reminiscences hold unique appeal. And her exquisite reinventions of classics manifest the original spirit. As someone who was on the scene -- and romantically linked to The King -- Wanda has particular standing.

These aren't languid museum artifacts, but vibrant readings. The stellar band ensures as much: six-string superhero Danny B. Harvey and storied Blondie skinman Clem Burke, for instance. 

Notable, too, is the exactly right participation (on piano) of Don Randi of The Wrecking Crew. His contributions buoy the material.

So possessed of honest rockabilly vigor are these cuts as to attract not only Elvis completists, but any big beat afficionado. The players  revere the Golden Era style while adding vivid contemporary flourishes. 

They wisely advance the general vibe rather than seeking undue individual attentions. The whole shakes mightily.

This is a rerelease of the 2006 Goldenlane Records original. The disc remains worth pursuit. Plus, it's now available on pink vinyl. Unobtrusively produced by Harvey, it includes liner notes by Elvis Costello.

We know1950s naysayers were wrong: Rock'n'Roll lives into the future. Here's the latest evidence. And it satisfies me.

Recommended: "Wanda Jackson's Introduction," "Good Rockin' Tonight," "Blue Moon of Kentucky," "I Don't Care If the Sun Don't Shine," "Baby Let's Play House," "Give Me the Right," "You're Right, I'm Left, He's Gone," "Mystery Train," "Ain't That Loving You, Baby," "I Wore Elvis' Ring," "Wanda Jackson remembers Elvis"

Video: "Blue Moon of Kentucky"

Cleopatra