The Americana Sessions - The Nelons - CD Review

The Nelons released The Americana Sessions last month. The album might not be what you think when you first hear the title. It's not a collection of patriotic songs but a collection of American standards and ballads. Some are newer than others, but most of them you will recognize.

The project starts with the Glen Campbell song "Gentle on My Mind." This isn't the only country star the group takes on. Autumn Nelon Clark shines on "Coat of Many Colors." This songs shows off her voice so well. I got to see her sing this one live a couple of times before the release of the project. "Country Roads Take Me Home" is another country classic that is a duet with Kelly and Amber.

Kelly takes on the Anne Murray song "You Needed Me," which I'll confess I was not as familiar with. I thought this was a really great song for her. I love all the older country songs. Jason puts his stamp on the classic Merle Haggard song "Mama Tried."

Many fans probably know that Amber is a huge Disney fan, so I thought adding "Colors of the Wind" to the project was a great touch. Her version is incredible. My favorite cut of hers on this project though is "Oh, Shenandoah." The arrangement has mainly just piano background to really showcase her voice and her upper range.

The two more "gospel-y" songs are "Daddy and Son," which features Jason's vocals and songwriting abilities. This is a new song but definitely fits the theme of the project. The Nelons also recorded an a cappella version of "Battlefield."

The sisters take on the classic "Bridge Over Troubled Water," which is a definite highlight of the project. They switch back and forth on the verses and come together at the end for a powerful ending.

I really loved that they chose to include the "American Triology," which is a medley of songs "Dixie," "Battle Hymn of the Republic" and "All My Trials." Overall, I loved the theme of this project and the song choice. It really showcases the family harmonies and blends well. It has a variety of songs that really has something for everyone!

Songs to Put on Repeat - "Bridge Over Troubled Water"
Songs to Turn Up - "Take Me Home Country Roads" and "Mama Tried"
Song That Will Take You Back - "Coat of Many Colors"


Song List -
1. "Gentle on My Mind"
2. "Colors of the Wind"
3. "Coat of Many Colors"
4. "You Needed Me"
5. "Daddy and Son"
6. "Bridge Over Troubled Water"
7. "Oh, Shenandoah"
8. "Take Me Home, Country Roads"
9. "An American Trilogy"
10. "Mama Tried"
11. "Battlefield"