In one sense this is Glen Campbell for the alternative country generation. Nowhere is this clearer than on his take of Jimmy Webb’s greatest song, “Wichita Lineman.” The original lush string arrangement is absent and instead Campbell sings it as a barroom ballad. His voice still sounds like musical honey and the depth that comes through age adds a juggernaut sized level of poignancy to a great performance.

As many of you may know, Glen was diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease several years ago, but managed to very adeptly record the tracks for “Glen Campbell: See You There” — a new 2013 release (available in vinyl format as well as CD) — in 2011, singing them beautifully. Since then, the progression of this dread disease has forced the star to stop touring.

Be aware that all the vocals in this fine album are NEW and hence are sung differently than the originals. They are not merely old masters. Campbell sings them with all of his heart. It's amazing how long he can still hold a note, and unlike some singers who have gotten older (he is now 77), Glen is still able to reach his higher range. However, producers did overdub some music after Campbell left the studio, to complement his great new takes on old standards of his. The result is at once chilling, uplifting, haunting and moving. "When Glen heard what they did in reinterpreting these songs, he lit up and was smiling from ear to ear. And I was too,” says Kim Campbell, Glen’s wife. “This record is a more intimate and unique take on many of Glen’s most popular songs as well as some other gems. The producers took the magic of his voice and showcased it in a whole new way for Glen.” The album’s title, “See you there...” is an expression that's been a trademark of Glen’s for years.

How fortunate that he had an opportunity to revisit some other Webb classics.“By The Time I Get To Phoenix” is sung against a backdrop of gentle acoustics with the odd strain in Campbell’s performance adding to the song’s sense of regret. “Galveston” is even more bare bones with the slide guitar and accordion lending it a much more contemplative and reflective feel. Listen closely to the lyrics, which project the young solder’s dilemma as he fought for his life during the Vietnam era. All he wanted was to live and get back to the waters of the Gulf of Mexico and his brown-eyed beauty. Through Glen’s voice you can hear the pain and fear in the soldier’s thoughts. And when he sings “I am so afraid of dying...” it’s likely to bring a tear to your eye, as the line may also be reflective of Mr. C’s own situation. When he sings “what I wouldn’t give to erase that tear in your eyes. What I wouldn't give to see you smile. Just close your eyes. I’ll see you again...” it will tug at your heartstrings, as it sounds as if Glen is saying goodbye to us.

Even in the grip of his illness Glen was still willing to take risks. He recorded The Band Perry’s “Postcard From Paris,” showing he can still deliver. The themes of God and faith are never far from Campbell’s heart, and his recording of “Waiting On the Coming Of My Lord” is not only a beautiful song, but has added meaning in light of the singer’s personal journey. There are two versions here; the one that ends the album has a Mariachi backing and strings.

The CD is inserted in a tri-fold digipak and contains an 8-page booklet with photos, song credits and the track list. For the true audiophile, the new vinyl pressing harkens back to the start of Glen's career when songs were released on records, not CDs. The LP is a wonderful keepsake and the sound quality is fabulous.

To sample some of the tracks, click the speaker icon below to hear them. Then scroll down the page to order today!