The 12-track record features the sounds, melodies, and lyrics reminiscent of true country music, all co-written by Cook, and renowned country band,Exile‘s J.P. Pennington, who served as co-writer and producer.
“It was my distinct privilege to have worked with J.P. Pennington. He is not only my producer and co-writer, but he has become a great friend and mentor, says Cook. “We co-wrote every song on the album together that takes you from having a blast to tears in 3 and a half minutes. The musicians on the album were Nashville’s A-Team. Those guys could make barbwire sound good! It was truly an amazing experience and a life’s dream come true.”
“His songs tell a story, and that’s what brings country music to life,” explains Loretta Lynn‘s sister, Peggy Sue Wright. “It helps that he’s a great person too, and once you meet him, you’ll know why everybody loves him.”
The lead single from the album also titled “Thanks A Lot, Loretta” was originally thought as a way for Cook to express his gratitude to the “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” but that’s not how the song came out. Instead Cook gives Loretta Lynn’s pioneering lyrics a nod in a ‘tongue and cheek’ manner as the reason he is being told to straighten up, as his gal follows the teachings of the country legend – the original mentor for female empowerment.
The Lynn-inspired single earned early praise from Robert K. Oermann with Music Row Magazine stating, “From the guitar licks to the steel to the baritone vocal, this is country, country, country all the way.”
The “Thanks A Lot, Loretta” music video featured special guests Peggy Sue Wright as well as singer/comedian Lulu Roman and premiered on Roughstock noting, “‘Thanks A Lot, Loretta’ is rooted in traditional country but soars into the mainstream airspace.” Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/
Cowboys & Indians Magazine premiered Cook’s album track “It’s All In The Kiss” prior to the drop date, stating the song “stands strong alongside Alan Jackson and George Strait.”
Upcoming appearances include WSMV’s Today in Nashville on Monday, April 2, 650 AM WSM’s Nashville Today on Thurs., April 5, and the nationally syndicated TV show “Country Fix,” airing the week of April 9.
Thanks A Lot, Loretta, is available for download now at iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby.
Track Listing:
1. Country Joe
2. Hangin’ with My Country Peeps
3. Honk for a Hottie
4. It’s All in the Kiss
5. Chewin’ Beechnut
6. Kissin’ Tree
7. Thanks A Lot, Loretta
8. Blood, Sweat and Mud
9. Call Me a Sinner
10. If That’s Just Too Country
11. I Want to See You Satisfied
12. Mess Up the Bed