It’s difficult to imagine how Josh Turner could have gone wrong with Country State Of Mind. The album title states his artistic purpose, and its twelve songs prove he stuck to his guns. Then again, Turner just doesn’t have a pop-country state of mind to draw from, so he was predestined for success from the get-go. Along with this mind state, Turner asked a few musical friends to join in this meeting of the minds and put their heads (and their voices) together for a strong set of songs. Again, how could he have gone wrong?
With the album’s title track, Turner helps Chris Janson get in touch with his roots. Other collaborators include Randy Travis, who finishes off his hit “Forever And Ever, Amen,” and Kris Kristofferson, who helps Turner sing the Kristofferson original spiritual, “Why Me.” As good as it is to hear Kristofferson and Turner together, poor Kristofferson sure sounds weak on it – especially next to Turner’s powerful voice.
Turner also sings with some girls (and girl groups). “You Don’t Seem To Miss Me” joins him with Runaway June, while “Desperately” features Maddie & Tae. Best of all is the sad folk-styled “Alone And Forsaken,” which pairs Turner with Alison Moorer.
Josh Turner’s voice always sounds great, but by matching that wonderful singing instrument with equally great artists and songs, makes Country State Of Mind a state you’re going to want to stay in for a long, long time.
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