by Pemberton RoachAndy Griggs' debut album is a tough sounding slice of modern country that, although far from raw, wisely avoids much of the ultra-sappiness that often taints the worst of the genre. Griggs has a wonderfully warm, deep, gospel-tinged voice that sometimes recalls Alan Jackson, but with less hillbilly twang. The material here is pretty strong; it sounds like Grigg and his producer really made an effort to weed out the throwaway Nashville pap, instead favoring more substantial fare in the tradition of other slightly left-of-center artists like Aaron Tippin and the Warren Brothers. Standout tracks include "Waitin' On Sundown," which wouldn't sound out of place on a Charlie Daniels Band or old Alabama album, and "Shine On Me," a duet with Waylon Jennings. That said, You Won't Ever Be Lonley, like 90 percent of the country that emerges from the Nashville major label machine, is bogged down by samey production and too-perfect playing. It's especially a shame in this case, considering the strength of many of the songs and Griggs' obvious talent. Although there is a nice rock edge happening in some places, nobody ever really takes any chances or embraces individuality in the manner that makes classic country so classic. Jennings' appearance underscores this fact, as his voice has a presence that completely transcends the album's limitations. It would be nice to see what Andy Griggs could do in a situation like Rick Trevino's appearances on the Los Super Seven albums, where his fine voice could be framed by rougher, more sympathetic music.