There have been times over the years when reviewing new releases or playing artists on my radio shows that something special happens after the first listen.
I remember the first time I heard Randy Travis and George Strait and thought that a brand new breath of fresh air was coming to country music with their styling, vocals and presentation of songs.
During the course of the week I have just experienced that same feeling.
Will Banister is a 23 year old singer/songwriter from Clovis, New Mexico who to my mind is about to gain superstar recognition.
Working with his Mulberry Band he recently debuted at the International Festival of Country Music held at Wembley last month to rave reviews.
His first release on Clovisite Record label entitled ‘Turned Her On to Country”, is sheer class from the opening bars through to the last fading note of this eleven track offering.
Not only does it contain fresh clean cut brilliant musicianship and vocals that are reminiscent to Merle Haggard and Lefty Frizzell but all songs are also written by Will.
He takes the traditional side of country, dusts off a few well worn edges and gives it a modern feel which brings it to life with his own particular stamp on it.
In these days of the Nashville moguls turning out cloned commercial country sounds each month it is great to hear a new individual stylist.
You can check him out by logging on to his website www.willbanister.com for further information.
I have no hesitation in recommending this album to any true traditional country fan who wishes to be part of a new horizon which could reshape the future of country music.
Will Banister Turned Her On To Country Clovisite Records