J. Rod’s Music World

Justin Rodstrom

This is no bittersweet final bow, no teary-eyed swan song; there is no curtain call. This is energetic, full-bodied rock ‘n’ roll with a stellar line-up and a lively 71-year-old Jerry Lee Lewis behind an even more energetic piano. Reinvigorated with contributions by 21 all-star recording artists new and old, “Last Man Standing” delivers the goods and the Killer, sounding like he hasn’t aged a day.

With a cast of characters including Jimmy Page, Eric Clapton, John Fogerty, Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, B.B. King, Rod Stewart, Ringo Starr, Willie Nelson, Bruce Springsteen, Buddy Guy, Little Richard, Don Henley, Kid Rock, Toby Keith and more, Lewis can simply do no wrong.

Every track serves up that signature “Killer” attitude and style, stellar to the last note. If you’re looking for an old man with an old sound, you’ve come to the wrong place.

The Killer sums it all up with the mantra, “Don’t put me on a frame above the mantle” from one of the few somber tracks, “Twilight,” featuring Robbie Robertson of The Band. While most aged Hall of Fame artists might reminisce about and pine for times of old, Jerry actually lives good ole days on this lively album, full of energy and passion.

Traversing blues, rockabilly and ’50s rock ‘n’ roll, this album is built for the long haul and appeals to longtime fans of the Killer as well as anyone eager to enter this man’s impressive body of work. And after an album of this quality, there are sure to be many, many new fans.

“Killer” tracks: “Rock and Roll” (with Jimmy Page), “Pink Cadillac” (with Bruce Springsteen), “Travelin’ Band” (with John Fogerty), “Saw Her Standin’ There” (with Little Richard)