Johnson thrilled Dallas fans on Friday at House of Blues with a live version of “Between Jennings and Jones,” during an evening of originals and covers performed with his six-piece band.
Tunes from That Lonesome Song peppered Johnson’s setlist on Friday. Its best known single, the heartrending family ode “In Color,” inspired a singalong, and the title tune “That Lonesome Song” set a distinctive mood with its simmering chorus and ominous steel-guitar lines.
But it was the set’s opening tune, “High Cost of Living,” that left the strongest impression. Johnson’s rich-as-maple-syrup baritone lends itself so well to those blunt regret anthems.
He opted mainly for the soft and tender gems such as the ballad “Amanda,” a song both Don Williams and Waylon Jennings popularized. Johnson smoldered during his bluesy take on “I Fall to Pieces,” and he reminded us of his inherent smoothness while doing George Jones’ “Tennessee Whiskey.”
Whatever he’s singing, Johnson is keeping the soul-stirring spirit of classic country relevant. Hail to the beard.
— Hunter Hauk