MANY will be pleased, if surprised, to see a new album from Glen Campbell.
After the diagnosis of the onset of Alzheimer’s Disease, Campbell completed an extensive farewell tour, including his October 2011 date at the York Barbican, and supposedly bowed out of public life at the 2012 Grammy Awards with a stunning, emotional rendition of Rhinestone Cowboy.
Artistically at least, Campbell’s last CD, 2011 Ghosts On The Canvas, marked the end of an impressive recording career that comfortably embraced country and pop in equal measure. But See You There is a welcome accompanying piece, also recorded in 2011.
The valedictory set includes new versions of Glen’s greatest hits and a couple of surprises. Of course Gentle On My Mind and Rhinestone Cowboy are included, as are the Jimmy Webb-penned classics Wichita Lineman, Galveston and By the Time I Get To Memphis. The rich baritone voice is unmistakable, even if the upper register is a little shaky. But given Campbell’s condition, this only adds to the power of these anthems.
The theme song to Campbell’s cinematic high spot, True Grit, in which he co-starred with John Wayne, is welcome as it rarely appears on standard Campbell collections. Likewise the little-heard Postcard From Paris and the striking Waiting On The Coming of My Lord, which features twice, are interesting and moving inclusions.
