I like the arrangements of Michael Martin Murphey, the vocal harmonies of Sons Of The San Joaquin, the touching ballads of Don Edwards and the melodies of Brenn Hill. These are just some of the most famous representatives of that world, which narrates with music, the deepest traditions of the West. A world that is slowly disappearing, but which today still boasts dozens of great performers, scattered throughout the United States. R.J. Vandygriff is definitely one of them, and his new album entitled “Cowboy To The Bone” is a window on the life of the cowboy, the greatest and most beloved hero of American history. The artistic career of R.J. Vandygriff is undoubtedly of a high level. Professional rodeo cowboy, who left the arenas to devote himself, full-time, to cowboy music. Thanks to an amazing voice and an artistic sensibility, this singer / songwriter from Texas is often seen as an opening act to many famous people, such as George Strait, Garth Brooks, Merle Haggard (who recently passed away) and Alabama. He also reached a certain popularity as an actor, playing the role of Mike Ranger in the Tv series “Walker Texas Ranger” alongside Chuck Norris. In 2010 he released “The Cowboy Is not Dead Yet”, which, the following year was declared “number one western Cd in America.” Just like “The Cowboy Is not Dead Yet”, even this “Cowboy To The Bone” is a very good album, destined to achieve great goals. “Chasin’ Rainbows”, the title track, “Cowboy to the Bone”, “Way of the Cowboy”, “What a Cowboy Way” and “William Bonney” are really good, and the arrangements, which are sober and well carried out, will enhance furthermore the evocative feeling. Highly recommended for everybody, even those who have never visited the great American plains. (Gianluca Sitta)
