Rusty Reid lets wonder have the final word on his rendition of 'Oh, What a World'
After the emotional sweep of 'Lone Stardust (Masterworks of Texas Songwriters)', Rusty Reid chooses to end his double album with pure wonder.
His interpretation of Kacey Musgraves' 'Oh, What a World' occupies the final position on the record and feels deliberately placed there. For the singer-songwriter, the song connects with his own spiritual outlook, offering a brighter conclusion after what he describes as the album's emotional roller-coaster.
But rather than attempting to recreate the airy, surreal quality of the original recording, he brings the song closer to his own indie-folk-country-rock territory. His intention is to make it feel more grounded while still allowing moments of lift, and the full-band arrangement gives him the tools to do exactly that.
Jason Roller's electric guitars sit alongside Chris Condon's acoustic playing, while Dane Bryant on keys, Jay Gorman on bass and Robert Blair on drums give the track a solid roots-rock foundation. While his vocal remains at the centre, carrying the song's sense of gratitude without losing the earthiness that distinguishes his interpretation.
His version doesn't need to reinvent 'Oh, What a World' to justify its existence. Instead, he changes the setting around it, exchanging some of the original's weightlessness for guitars, band chemistry and a more grounded sense of awe.
As the final track on 'Lone Stardust', Rusty Reid allows himself one last look around and finds something worth marvelling at.
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