Darryl Worley - Second Wind: Latest and Greatest (2019)

The rich, reedy tones and all-American, blue-collar themes in his #1 hits "I Miss My Friend," "Awful, Beautiful Life" and "Have You Forgotten?" are reminders of the down-to-earth, Haggard-like Darryl Worley you always knew. The island vibes and blue-eyed soul in new songs "It's Good To Be Me," "Lay It On Me" and "Lonely Alone" suggest there's another, almost funky, version of Worley that's been kept under wraps.The alternate sides are both on display in 'Second Wind: Latest and Greatest', a project that mixes the traditional-country history he established in Nashville with the ragged soul that's deep in the bones of Muscle Shoals, a musical Alabama hotbed where Worley got his start. The area hosted hit sessions for Aretha Franklin, Bob Seger, Wilson Pickett and The Rolling Stones, and the sweaty swagger of the region's recording studios was a perfect fit for Worley as he recorded an album that re-establishes him in country culture.'Second Wind' is aptly titled, since it's the first full-length album released by Worley in eight years, following a self-imposed layoff from recording that has the same familial motivations that spawned Garth Brooks' legendary retirement from touring.In the end, 'Second Wind' signals Worley's return to the national stage after a period of re-commitment in his home life. The new music puts an unexpected sonic spin on a familiar voice while reaffirming the uplifting intent that continues unabated throughout his entire body of material. Worley's always been prepared to walk away if the songs didn't make a difference, and 'Second Wind' is an apt summation of the values and authenticity that have driven his entire career.