George Highfill - Thank a Trucker (2023)

George Highfill may not have the same name recognition as, say, George Strait, but he's definitely punching in the same weight class when it comes to delivering a country song. His latest album, "Thank A Trucker," is a testament to his immense talent and unwavering dedication to the craft. This collection of original songs is a delightful throwback to the purest form of country and western music, capturing the essence of the genre with authenticity and passion. Indeed, if the 11 songs on “Thank a Trucker” don’t give you a Pavlovian craving for a cold beer and a dance floor, you might want to check your pulse because you just might be dead.

While Highfill may have been out of the American public eye for a while, it seems that he has found an enthusiastic audience across the Atlantic in Europe. The seeds of "Thank A Trucker" were sown in Finland where Highfill and longtime collaborator Borje Nylund began writing and producing these songs, and harvested in California, where another longtime collaborator, Paul Marshall, assembled some of the West Coast’s finest country musicians, bringing their impeccable skills and heartfelt connection to traditional country music. The musicianship on "Thank A Trucker" is top-notch, with Highfill surrounded by talented individuals who play with both skill and heart.

The album showcases a range of subgenres within the country idiom, while maintaining a pure, traditional sound. The title track, "Thank a Trucker," following in the footsteps of Dave Dudley and Red Simpson, pays homage to the hardworking individuals who tirelessly deliver goods across the country. Highfill's storytelling shines through, weaving a tale of sacrifice, perseverance, and the resilience of those who make their living on the open highway. It sets the tone for the entire collection, capturing the spirit of the album.

Highfill's ability to deliver a sad song is where he truly shines, and "Too Sad to Sing" is a prime example of his mastery in that realm. Co-written by Paul Marshall and Butch Hendrix, this tear-jerker is evocative of the emotional depth found in the works of country legend George Jones. Highfill's delivery resonates with the listener, tugging at their heartstrings and immersing them in a world of sorrow and vulnerability. Similarly, "Two Merles and a Buck" is another poignant track that ends with Highfill urging the listener to "play some real country." It's a heartfelt plea that captures the essence of traditional country music and serves as a reminder of its enduring power.

George Highfill's "Thank A Trucker" is a testament to his unwavering commitment to traditional country and western music. With its heartfelt ballads, toe-tapping honky-tonk tunes, and everything in between, this album showcases Highfill's immense talent and his ability to transport listeners to a bygone era. Whether he's delivering a tear-jerker or a lively dance number, Highfill's authenticity shines through, capturing the essence of the genre and reminding us why traditional country music holds a special place in our hearts. "Thank a Trucker" is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the beauty and power of real country music.