Rockabilly for Life

When Robert Gordon started singing rockabilly in the mid-70s, the notion of a new artist playing rock & roll in an authentic 50s style (and not as a gag, in the manner of Sha Na Na) was considered radical enough that he was still welcome at CBGB even after leaving the proto-punk outfit Tuff Darts for something more retro. More than four decades later, Gordon has gone from being a rebel to a traditionalist without changing a bit; hes a guy who, at least as far as music goes, would just as soon time had stopped before the Beatles came along and changed everything. In some rockabilly circles, hes revered as an old-school hero just as he worshiped Elvis Presley and Gene Vincent back in the day, and as befits an esteemed veteran, his 2020 album Rockabilly for Life features him belting out a selection of rockabilly classics with a handful of guest stars to keep things lively. The guest list is pretty impressive, including Dave Alvin of the Blasters, James Williamson of Iggy and the Stooges, former David Letterman bandleader Paul Shaffer, Blondie drummer Clem Burke, Go-Gos guitarist Kathy Valentine, country star Steve Wariner, and Linda Gail Lewis, Jerry Lees pianist and sister. With so many worthwhile artists stopping by to show their support, it would be nice to report that Rockabilly for Life is a great comeback for Gordon; unfortunately, that isnt quite the case. Though the cameo appearances are well intended, several amount to not much more than a bit of overdubbed vocals or soloing. Overall, the production and arrangements sound rather generic, competent, and expert without bringing anything very exciting to these very familiar tunes. And Gordon, who was 73 when this album was released, doesnt quite have the voice he once did. He has trouble with his high notes, his instrument isnt as flexible as in his salad days, and his timing is off every once in a while. He counters that with plenty of passion and obvious commitment to this material, and hes still a better-than-average rockabilly vocalist. However, compared to his classic recordings of the 70s and 80s, these performances sound rough and a bit weary. Of course, Gordon is still alive, kicking, and singing rock & roll well past the usual retirement age, something Presley and Vincent never managed, and Rockabilly for Life honors his influence and commitment to hepcats everywhere, warts and all. ~ Mark Deming