Elbert West
Livin' the Life
Broken Bow Records
**** (of 5)

This is country and a half. There's something about the third song on a CD. In this case, the track is called "Diddley." It's a rockin' song that touts the uselessness of of people's opinions about the hero's two left dancin' feet. Kind of a countrified nod to Zappa, but without the sarcasm.

Elbert is no stranger to writing country hits. He wrote two chart-toppers for Tracy Lawrence ("Sticks and Stones" and "Can't Break it to My Heart"), and it looks like he's well on his way to doing the same for himself.

With hit after hit bubbling out of this disc, you'd be a fool to pass it up.

Do you agree or disagree with our review? E-mail us and we'll post your thoughts.

Hey there,

Yes I most certainly agree with the positive review that you have given Livin' the Life. I listen to mostly country music, but have an open mind and opinion. I first purchased this cd after seeing Elbert do an acoustic show at a small country fest type show in PA several years ago. Even after all these years and numerous new albums later, I always fall back to this album for that great traditional country sound. The songs always sound fresh with that old driving country sound. I haven't seen Elbert since, and I have problem trying to locate him or find out where he will be performing. Any information would be very helpful. Elbert is what country music has always been about, and where it should be going. Thanks for an incredible collection of music and song.

Jim Jordan