John Fogerty returns with a star-studded affair on ‘Wrote a Song for Everyone,’ covering his own classics.

John Fogerty returns with a star-studded affair on Wrote a Song for Everyone, released via Vanguard.  Covering himself,  Fogerty’s ‘re-recordings’ – many in duet form – are enjoyable, while none supersede the originals.  Regardless whether or not Fogerty rekindles the height of an illustrious career, the veteran sounds gritty and deeply invested on each and every track.

On standout “Lodi”, sons Shane and Tyler guest, playing guitar behind their father as he nails every vocal nuance.  On the title cut  “Wrote A Song For Everyone”, Miranda Lambert serves as a perfect vocal complement to Fogerty. Tom Morello delivers a superb guitar solo.  Zac Brown Band lifts “Bad Moon Rising”, with Clint Black’s harmonica providing an extra kick.  Kid Rock and Dave Grohl (Foo Fighters) match Fogerty’s intensity on “Fortunate Son” and “Born on the Bayou” respectively. Jennifer Hudson provides unstoppable powerhouse vocals on “Proud Mary.” Allen Toussaint (piano) and the Rebirth Brass Band also appear.

Wrote A Song For Everyone never really misses, but some cuts raise objections.  “Have You Ever Seen the Rain” is an extremely popular number by Fogerty, but his duet with Alan Jackson disappoints as far as the ‘electricity.’  Taylor Goldsmith (of Dawes) and Jim James (of My Morning Jacket) both deliver nice vocals, though neither seems the perfect vocal match for Fogerty.  Numbers like “Train of Fools” and “Who’ll Stop the Train” (featuring Bob Seger) are good, but aren’t top echelon.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, Wrote A Song For Everyone is a sound, enjoyable offering from Fogerty.  It is not revolutionary or particularly innovative, but that is not the expectation.  Fogerty has already more than proven himself as a veteran.  Wrote A Song For Everyone is the affirmation of how many great songs the rock star has composed and performed.

Gems: “Lodi,” “Mystic Highway,” “Wrote a Song for Everyone” & “Bad Moon Rising”

John Fogerty • Wrote A Song For Everyone • Vanguard • Release: 5.28.13

Photo Credit: Vanguard