Album Review: "Jackson Mississippi Train / Can You Sing Me A Love Song" by Steve Wright (1971)
Alright, let’s talk about this hidden gem from way back in ‘71—Steve Wright’s Jackson Mississippi Train / Can You Sing Me A Love Song. It’s one of those albums that kinda sneaks up on you. At first glance, it seems like just another folk-rock record with a dash of funk and soul tossed in for good measure. But once you hit play, man, it’s got this raw charm that sticks to your ribs. Released under Epic Records, the album feels like a time capsule from an era when music wasn’t so polished but had heart oozing outta every groove.
Let me break it down for ya. The title track, “Can You Sing Me A Love Song,” is pure magic. Like, I swear, the moment those acoustic guitar strings start strumming, you’re transported somewhere else entirely. It’s not overly complicated or flashy—it’s just honest. That voice of Wright’s? Feels like he’s sitting right there across from you, spilling his guts over a cup of coffee. There’s no pretense here, just a dude asking for something real in a world full of noise. And damn if that chorus doesn’t get stuck in your head for days. You find yourself humming it while doing dishes or waiting in line at the grocery store.
Then there’s “Jackson.” Oh man, this track hits different. If “Love Song” is all soft and reflective, “Jackson” brings the heat. It’s got this funky rhythm that makes your feet tap before you even realize what’s happening. The bassline? Ridiculous. Honestly, it’s the kind of song that could’ve been huge if it came out today—with its mix of rock grit and soulful swagger—but back then, it probably flew under the radar. Still, it’s impossible not to remember because it feels alive, like it’s bursting at the seams with energy. Every time I hear it, I picture some smoky dive bar where everyone’s dancing without a care in the world.
Now, as much as I love these two tracks, the whole vibe of the album reminds me of something my grandpa used to say: “Good music doesn’t shout; it whispers.” This record does exactly that. It doesn’t try too hard to impress you—it lets the melodies and lyrics do the talking. Sure, it might not be perfect (there are moments where the production feels a little dated), but isn’t that part of its charm? It’s like flipping through old photographs—you don’t mind the faded edges because they tell a story.
Here’s the kicker though: listening to this album made me wonder how many other treasures like this are buried in the crates of history, forgotten by most but still shining bright for anyone willing to dig deep enough. So yeah, give Jackson Mississippi Train / Can You Sing Me A Love Song a spin. Who knows? Maybe you’ll stumble upon something that speaks straight to your soul. Or maybe you’ll just end up dancing alone in your kitchen. Either way, you win.
