Different Things
The Texas veteran returns with a release that shows considerable range, depth, and maturity, serving as a strong showcase for his soulful baritone.  Though Byrd hit his commercial peak a decade ago, he's never recorded a more consistently engaging set of material than this. Among the highlights are the reflective title ballad, the evocation of perfect love on "Just One Woman," and the tale of a couple of weather-beaten romantics who take another chance on true love in "A Cowboy and a Dancer." Yet growing up hasn't meant going soft, as Byrd shows in the uptempo "The More I Feel Like Rockin'," the Western swing of "The Biggest Thing in Texas," and the barroom kiss-off "Better Places Than This." This isn't kids' stuff, but it's country music for adults who still like to let loose once in awhile.--Don McLeese