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Danny Clinch

Wynton Marsalis (left) and Willie Nelson collaborated on Two Men With the Blues

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Two Men With the Blues

Blue Note

WILLIE, THE JAZZMAN: For those of us familiar with Mr. Nelson's oeuvre, his full-blown jazz turn with trumpeter Wynton Marsalis will come as no surprise. The country icon's trademark singing behind the beat is classic jazz style, as is his fluid guitar picking. Original songs such as "Night Life" and his interpretations of "Stardust" and "Georgia on My Mind," all three of which are included here, owe more than a nod to jazz. His concerts, whether with his band or a stunning orchestra, always have jazzy moments.

LINCOLN CENTER LIVE: Two Men With the Blues, recorded in January 2007 at Jazz at Lincoln Center, is expertly played and passionately presented. Willie and Wynton are committed to the material, which also includes the swinging "Caldonia" and the bluesy "Ain't Nobody's Business." The two are relaxed and jovial, easily proving they are creative beacons in their respective genres. But after knowing Mr. Nelson's artistic trajectory, the CD feels more obvious than revelatory.

BOTTOM LINE: Mr. Nelson should hire Mr. Marsalis as part of his traveling musical family. He'd easily fit in the Texan's usual country-jazz shows.

Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis will perform at 8 p.m. July 14 at Bass Performance Hall, Fourth and Commerce, Fort Worth. www.basshall.com and 817-212-4280 or 877-212-4280. $34.50-$150.