Country music artist Jason Eady has released a new album titled 'Tulsa Turnaround,' marking a significant shift from his usual traditional country style. Known for his honky-tonk rhythms, acoustic melodies, and profound lyrical compositions, Eady, originally from Mississippi and long based in Texas, ventured into a different musical direction with this 11-track collection. The album is a dedicated tribute to the 'Tulsa Sound,' an influential musical movement that emerged in Oklahoma during the 1960s, characterized by its fusion of folk, blues, and rock influences, and later popularized globally by artists such as Eric Clapton.
Eady emphasized that the primary goal of 'Tulsa Turnaround' was to let the music speak for itself, focusing on the overall feel and sound rather than his usual lyric-centric approach. He penned ten of the album's tracks and enlisted the expertise of Oklahoma native John Fullbright as producer, who is currently touring with the Turnpike Troubadours. The album's title track specifically references iconic figures and venues from the Tulsa music scene, including J.J. Cale, Leon Russell, the Gap Band, and Cain's Ballroom, weaving their legacy into a blues-infused composition featuring choir-like backing vocals. Eady intentionally crafted the song to highlight the local elements of Tulsa, distinguishing it from other songs with similar titles that might not be as deeply rooted in the city's culture.
Eady's fascination with the Tulsa Sound began after encountering Eric Clapton's 1982 compilation LP, 'Timepieces,' which featured covers of J.J. Cale, a pioneer of the genre. This introduction led him to explore the rich and diverse musical landscape of Tulsa, realizing it was a collective movement rather than the work of a single artist. The recording of 'Tulsa Turnaround' took place at Farmhouse Studios, the former home of Steve Ripley, who once owned the Church Studio—a central hub of the Tulsa Sound founded by Leon Russell. This collaboration with Fullbright, initiated after a jam session in Tulsa, cemented Eady's commitment to authentically capturing the spirit of the sound. The album is a collaborative effort, reflecting the contributions of Fullbright and the entire band, a testament to the shared passion for this unique musical heritage.
Through his latest work, Jason Eady not only pays homage to a rich musical tradition but also exemplifies the power of artistic exploration and collaboration. His journey into the Tulsa Sound underscores the importance of embracing new creative paths and recognizing the collective spirit that often drives artistic innovation. This album serves as a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating that true artistry lies in the courage to evolve while honoring the foundations that have shaped musical landscapes, encouraging both artists and audiences to delve deeper into the diverse tapestry of sound.