Jack Sundrud

“By My Own Hand”

Dogpile Records

In Nashville, where you can’t swing your arm without hitting a self-proclaimed “songwriter,” the magnificently talented Jack Sundrud has released a solo album that virtually stands head and shoulders, and, yes, hands, above just about everything anyone is writing and recording in Music City these days.

Currently working as the bassist in the long-running Poco, Sundrud has a storied history of writing terrific songs that have turned into hits for many other artists. One of the founders of the highly underrated band Great Plains, Sundrud, along with the equally talented Craig Bickhardt, co-wrote “It Must Be Love,” which country star Ty Herndon took to number one on the country charts. Now, he’s turned his eye back toward his interpretations of his own work, and the results are incredible.

Aided by a virtual who’s who of Nashville talent, including fellow Poco members Rusty Young and Paul Cotton, the magnificent singers Helen Darling and Michael Kelsh, the multi-talented writer, arranger and player Bickhardt and a host of others, Sundrud has crafted a beautiful, emotional song cycle.

And, despite his obvious talents as a songwriter and arranger, Sundrud’s secret weapon is clearly his voice. He’s got that unique sound and delivery that immediately brings a lump to the throat and emotion to the heart of every listener. Very, very few singers have that, and he does, in spades. If there’s any question about that, just have a listen to the remarkable “Father’s Day,” which he occasionally plays in acoustic settings with Poco, “Modern Day Blacksmith,” “Heartland Train,” and “Hard Country,” just a few of the great songs on this album.

You want deep, heartfelt music, played and sung from the soul? Then, run out and buy this outstanding release.

- Mark T. Gould

****