A handful of CDs feature women singing traditional country standards

Tanya Tucker put her inimitable stamp on a dozen country songs originally popularized by men on “My Turn,” which was released in late June. Patty Loveless offered haunting interpretations of classic bluegrass tunes on “Mountain Soul II,” which arrived in stores Sept.29. Then on Oct.6, Rosanne Cash covered “The List,” a dozen country classics recommended by her late father, Johnny Cash. Finally, Lorrie Morgan returned to recording with “A Moment in Time,” her Oct.26 collection of traditional country staples.

The second half of 2009 has provided a firm platform for seasoned female country vocalists giving us their takes on well-known, or at least well-regarded, front-porch numbers. Cash’s “The List” has clearly enjoyed the most critical and commercial success. Her gem of a record, which sparkles thanks to beautiful renditions of “Miss the Mississippi and You,” “500 Miles,” “She’s Got You” and many others, automatically has the Johnny Cash cachet. It also includes duets with Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Costello, Jeff Tweedy and Rufus Wainwright, all of which raise her cool quotient.

“The List” proved to be Cash’s highest charting disc on Billboard’s pop albums chart. It landed at No.22. Her previous zenith was No.26 for 1981’s benchmark “Seven Year Ache.” Its appeal proves that adult CD buyers still want to hear great vintage songs refreshed by a thoughtful singer. The same can be said for the projects by Tucker, Loveless and Morgan. Stunning songs and equally compelling voices never go out of style.