I am not going to tell you that Buck Owens' music is profound. I am going to tell you that his songs are great driving music: catchy tunes that seem to get better as you become more familiar with them; vocals that are fun to sing along with (with a fake country accent); tempos that are upbeat and fun; little twists that I find amusing (e.g., the pseudo-Asian sound of "Made in Japan"). In short, Buck Owens put out a stream of fun, upbeat pop hits with a country overlay that are perfect accompaniments for driving -- neither too heavy nor too aggressive. Even when some jerk cuts me off, I just keep on smiling, singing along and tapping my (left) foot.

Technically, the discs sound just fine to me -- but then again I've never heard them outside my car!

• "The Very Best of BuckOwens Vol. I"