There are certain statements that need to be read out before playing an album by Alan Jackson: 43 million sales; 31 number one hits; country entertainer of the year and singer /songwriter of the decade.

Once these facts are known, the stakes are somewhat higher. This album's 12 tracks are mostly self penned, all of them as ever drawn from real-life experiences.

You Don't Have To Paint Me A Picture lives up to Jackson's romantic reputation, while If French Fries Were Fat Free echoes most people's dreams. Although this is the 14th album from this country music icon, he still evokes different emotions and still has the power to entertain.

Updated: 08:38 Thursday, October 07, 2004