Country Songs

1. Back In The Saddle Again

2. My Darlin’ Clementine

3. Wabash Cannonball

4. Down By The Bay

5. Yellow Rose Of Texas

6. Farmer In The Dell

7. Cotton Eyed Joe

8. Aura Lee

9. Old MacDonald Had A Farm

10. Little Bo Peep

11. Blue Tail Fly

12. Barnyard Song

13. She’ll Be Comin’ Round The Mountain

14. Get Along Little Doggies

15. The Chicken Dance

16. Sippin’ Cider Through A Straw

17. Little Boy Blue

18. The Old Grey Mare

19. Yankee Doodle

20. Home On The Range

See all 30 tracks on this disc

Country Songs,St. Clair Kids,St. Clair Entertainment Group Inc,Children's Collections,Country

Average customer rating: Prine and twang...... I guess I'm an "average people." A Disappointment ...and so sorry to say it John Prine Love Awfully corny

Standard Songs for Average People John Prine & Mac Wiseman Manufacturer: Oh Boy ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: John Prine Live On Soundstage 1980 My Name Is Buddy Last of the Breed Stars in My Crown West ASIN: B000NVLJRO Release Date: 2007-04-24

Tracks:

1. Blue Eyed Elaine
2. Don't Be Ashamed Of Your Age
3. I Forgot To Remember To Forget
4. I Love You Because
5. Pistol Packin' Mama
6. Saginaw Michigan
7. Old Dogs, Children And Watermelon Wine
8. Old Cape Cod
9. Death Of Floyd Collins
10. The Blue Side Of Lonesome
11. In The Garden
12. Just The Other Side Of Nowhere
13. Old Rugged Cross
14. Where The Blue Of The Night

Amazon.com

Things don't get much schmaltzier than a Dobro played Hawaiian style, which is why it's fitting that Cowboy Jack Clement offers one up on "The Blue Side of Lonesome," Leon Payne's dated but charming classic--only one such excursion into blue-haired reminiscing on an album of over-the-top sentimentality. It was the legendary Clement who paired smart-ass folkie Prine and bluegrass totem Wiseman, but the singers themselves chose the repertoire, which reads like songs people of a certain age might pick on a dry drunk. The tunes range, believe it or not, from religious hymns to covers of Patti Page's 1957 hit "Old Cape Cod," Kris Kristofferson's underrated "Just the Other Side of Nowhere," and Tom T. Hall's "Old Dogs, Children, and Watermelon Wine," with a little Elvis and Ernest Tubb thrown in for good measure. It's fitting that Prine and Wiseman revisit the Hall standard, since oddly, both singers vocally favor the Nashville storyteller from time to time. But one has to question their use of the Grand Ole Opry's Carol Lee Singers, who show up on several cuts and seem, well, just bizarre on a John Prine record, even as they evoke the lushly famous Nashville Sound of the 1960s. Suffice it to say, this is a quirky project, and if Prine's scratchy baritone and Wiseman's melodic tenor sometimes overlap to where you can't tell who's singing what, it doesn't much matter. You're listening to two new pals having what seems to be the time of their life. --Alanna Nash

Customer Reviews:

Prine and twang.............2007-07-03

I first caught the wind of the country & western direction in John Prine when I heard his earlier CD "In Spite of Ourselves." The Nashville influence has laid a noticable twang on his voice to the extent that the vocals are sometimes hardly recognizable as Mr. Prine. As mentioned in some of the other reviews, on my first listening, I also thought immediately of Tom T. Hall. For long time followers more accustomed to John's rebellious angles (and the wry title, at least, is pure Prine) this CD might be quite a shock. But I accept it as simply the mark of a mature artist stretching himself artistically, not "selling out" for the sake of sales to a mellower audience. My apologies for not commenting more about Mac, I am less familiar with his work but I assume that stylistically this is more in his comfort zone. His vocals bond nicely with John's and this is definitely equality in a duet. A nice relaxing work, accept it for what it is, not what you expect of John Prine.

I guess I'm an "average people.".......2007-06-27

I heard John Prine and Mac Wiseman on NPR one afternoon
and fell in love. Their song choices are wonderful.

A Disappointment ...and so sorry to say it.......2007-06-26

This was such a disappointment. I had looked forward to this for months, having admired Mac Wiseman for over fifty years, and Prine for thirty or so. But this just doesn't work.

The songs are such classics that each singer could do them well while singing by himslef. But there are just no strong emotional tugs from these "collaborations." Mac has done some great work singing with other bluegrass singers, and Prine has been terrific in his work with women singers ... but these two great men never seem to feed off one another. The feel suggests that these guys were not even singing together. I'll lay this away and go back to the many songs that I have by each that are so terrific.

John Prine Love.......2007-06-14

I don't think there is anything John Prine could do to diminish the love we feel for his music in our family. We think he might be America's poet, or one of them anyway. This CD is sweet and lovely and seems like two great guys sitting down playing and singing some nice tunes together and we all get to listen or sing along. "Standard songs for average people..." - the title says it all. Just a sweet ole time with John Prine and, in this case, with Mr. Wiseman, too. I gave this to my husband for our anniversary, along with the recently released John Prine DVD, and we are always just so grateful for great artists and John Prine is surely one.

Awfully corny.......2007-06-12

Sorry, love nearly all of JP's output but this is the worst I've ever heard, schmaltzy, corny, cringe-inducing, hurts me to say but it's the way I would see it. Bought it blind on the strength of all John's other stuff and regretted it immediately. If everyone else thinks it's great, maybe I can get my money back on ebay...

Average customer rating: If you only could have one Jimmy Buffet CD this is it! This is the one that hooks you Parrotheads Unite! Perfect recipe for summer Not the best collection.

Songs You Know by Heart Jimmy Buffett Manufacturer: Mca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Pop | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Soft Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Country Rock | Rock | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music $9.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Country | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $9.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Meet Me In Margaritaville: The Ultimate Collection License to Chill Changes in Latitudes Changes in Attitudes A-1-A Living and Dying in 3/4 Time ASIN: B000002O2B Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Cheeseburger In Paradise
2. He Went To Paris
3. Fins
4. son Of A son Of A Sailor
5. A Pirate Looks At Forty
6. Margaritaville
7. Come Monday
8. Changes In Latitiudes, Changes In Attitudes
9. Why Don't we Get Drunk
10. Pencil Thin Mustache
11. Graperfruit-Juicy Fruit
12. Boat Drinks
13. Volcano

Amazon.com essential recording

Critics have always been singularly unkind to Jimmy Buffett. Or at least they have since the singer became immune to their jabs, commanding a nation of Parrotheads who sell out his shows, snap up his records and books, and eat and drink in his nightclubs in Key West and New Orleans. By now, you've made up your mind as well: To paraphrase Buffett himself from his song "Volcano," you either lava him now, or you lava him not. Songs You Know by Heart is a friendly little best-of collection that features concert perennials such as "Margaritaville," "Fins," "Cheeseburger in Paradise," and the immutable "Why Don't We Get Drunk." If by some chance you've not yet been introduced to Buffett's music, this album is the best way to say hello. --Daniel Durchholz

Customer Reviews:

If you only could have one Jimmy Buffet CD this is it!.......2007-06-11

All the best songs, a must have if you don't have any Jimmy yet. And a great addition to your existing Jimmy collection, and a great spare with all the great songs for the car CD, and what would Jimmy do? You guessed it! Go for it, you will not be disappointed because there is no bad Jimmy Buffet songs.

This is the one that hooks you.......2007-03-24

I've been listening to Jimmy for quite a few years. A friend recommended I get this album, and after that, I had to have everything else. If you've read my reviews, you know I've been rough on Jimmy's incessant string of repetitive live albums. This is the good stuff- All the songs are pulled from Jimmy's (non-Barnaby) albums up to but not including Coconut Telegraph. It skips the album Havana Daydreamin' entirely. I agree with other reviewers that the song selection leaves out a plethora of great Buffett tunes, but you'll find them eventually. This is a sampling of the artist in his prime, and if you like it, it's safe to say you'll enjoy the larger body of his work. If you don't like it, none of his other work is going to do it for you. I always thought Jimmy would come through with a greatest hits vol.2, or at least a double cd encompassing his larger body of work. That's what "Meet Me in Margaritaville" was supposed to be, but that collection just isn't coherent and definitive as Songs You Know By Heart. After becoming a hard-core fan, I have to say that this collection is really going to be the pinnacle of his compilation albums. So, if you're interested in trying out the works of Jimmy Buffett, start here. I'll bet you won't be disappointed. This stuff is solid gold. Thank you for reading my review!(note to Jimmy- why not consider putting the title track to "havana daydreamin'" on this as a bonus track for future pressings of the cd? It's a heck of a song, and it's from the era. It would fit right in.)

Parrotheads Unite!.......2007-01-13

Truly songs we all know by heart. Great music - hard to pick a song that doesn't go well with a Corona or Margarita, and hard to pick a song since that he's done that would push one of these off the CD. The song vividly captures the spirit of Margaritaville - we are turning into the people our parents warned us about, or so we would like to believe.

Perfect recipe for summer.......2006-10-07

Step one: buy this cd
Step two: buy new blender
Step three: buy lots of rum and fruit mixes
Step four: mix the rum and fruit
Step five: pour the mixture into a glass
Step six: put on the cd
Step seven: repeat steps three through six as often as needed

If you don't drink alcohol then you'll still enjoy this greatest hits collection. All the early hits are here and it's really all you need to know about the guy. But there is a lot more good stuff out there. Make sure you give it all a listen.

Not the best collection........2005-12-13

When I started listening to this CD, I was surprised that I found it devoid of the energy I associate with Jimmy Buffett. His newer material (both studio-recorded and live albums) have an enegry that is lacking in this older collection.

If you enjoy a more mellow JB form 20 years ago, or if you just like him for his radio hits, this is the album for you.

But if you're into the hard-core, serious partying, spontaneous, energetic JB, if you call yourself a Parrothead, skip this album.

I recommend _any_ of his live albums or "Meet Me in Margaritaville" instead of this one. You'll be getting more music for your money, anyway.

Average customer rating: Classic Cowboy Gunfighter Ballads by Marty Robbins is Cowboy Songs at their Best Great CD More than just "El Paso." Gunfighter Ballads & Trails Songs

Gunfighter Ballads & Trail Songs Marty Robbins Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Cowboy | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Nashville Sound | Traditional Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Traditional Country | Country | Styles | Music Hawaii | Pacific Islands | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music $7.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Country | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music International | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $7.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Johnny Horton - Greatest Hits Marty Robbins - All-Time Greatest Hits Cool Water (& 17 Timeless Favorites) On the Trail The Essential Marty Robbins ASIN: B0000296J9 Release Date: 1999-10-19

Tracks:

1. Big Iron
2. A Hundred And Sixty Acres
3. They're Hanging Me Tonight
4. Cool Water
5. Billy The Kid
6. Utah Carol
7. The Strawberry Roan
8. The Master's Call
9. Running Gun
10. El Paso
11. In The Valley
12. The Little Green Valley
13. The Hanging Tree
14. Saddle Tramp
15. El Paso (Full-Length Version)

Amazon.com

A lonely Westerner in Nashville, Marty Robbins salved his soul by cutting an album (in one afternoon) of mostly self-composed cowboy ballads. One of them was a four-and-a-half-minute epic, "El Paso," that broke every rule of Top 40 programming to become a No. 1 pop and country hit in 1960. Robbins was arguably the most surefooted and accomplished singer in all country music, and that was never more obvious than on these Western ballads performed to often breathtaking perfection with a very small group and a vocal trio. Other titles include "Big Iron" (also a Top 30 hit), "Running Gun," and Western classics like "Cool Water," "Billy the Kid," and "The Strawberry Roan." Three extra tracks flesh out the 1999 release, including "Saddle Tramp" (the B-side of "Big Iron") and "The Hanging Tree" (title song from the 1959 Gary Cooper Western). --Colin Escott

Customer Reviews:

Classic Cowboy.......2007-05-27

Although Frank Sinatra is credited with creating the first "concept" album. Columbia might have one-upped Capital with this unique "Old West" collection. Although its been almost 50 years since this jewel was first recorded, it sounds like it was made yesterday. Marty Robbins has had many hit albums in the C/W top ten, but none of them has been as endearing as this 1959 classic. You get "El Paso, "Cool Water" "The Hanging Tree" and 12 more ballards sung by one of Country/Western all-time favorites. I can guarantee, you will continue to listen to these cowboy story songs for years to come.

Gunfighter Ballads by Marty Robbins is Cowboy Songs at their Best.......2007-03-20

The lable attached to the CD says "All Time Country Classic". It's misleading. This is an all time classic, period. I first bought this collection as an LP. The front said "High Fidelity", not "Stereo High Fidelity," but as a kid in 1959, I didn't care. "El Paso" was #1 on the pop charts. Marty Robbins had been a "cross-over" artist making the charts with "A White Sport Coat and a Pink Carnation," so I was primed when this album hit. Grammy-winning "Gunfighter Ballads..." set Marty Robbins apart. It isn't country, it isn't '50s pop, it might be Americana or folk music. It is cowboy or western music, I suppose. There are more reasons to own this album than "El Paso." "Cool Water," "The Master's Call." Utah Carol," "and "The Strawberry Roan" are all great songs interpreted by a great voice. "Gunfighter Ballads ..." is what it now says on the CD jacket, a "classic." Marty Robbins died in his early sixties, so many younger ears may not know him. They should, especially if they collect the good stuff from all eras.

Great CD.......2007-03-08

I grew up listeniing to Marty Robbins, and the Gunfighter Ballads is my favorite album and I just had to get this CD...because I use to listen to the music on LP, back in the 80's and I haven't heard the songs for over 15 years...with great imagination, listening to these songs would make it seem like you're watching a very interesting Western movie.

More than just "El Paso.".......2007-01-28

If you want to buy this CD just for "El Paso" you'll be plenty happy. If you allow yourself to listen to the remaining tracks, you'll be very happy. This was Marty's best effort, IMHO.

The remastering is done very well, although the source recording, being in 1959, does have its limitations. Overall, a very enjoyable CD, and well worth the work done to remaster and restore it!

Gunfighter Ballads & Trails Songs .......2007-01-18

I find the quality of the CD GUnfighter Ballads & Trail Songs to be fantastic. I never thought I would ever find this album in a CD form. This was one of my favorite albums I loved listening to when I was little. My dad loved this album as well and now that my dad passed away. Everytime I listen to this CD I think of my dad. Thanks Amazon for having it on hand for me to purchase it.

Average customer rating: Great Live Album Nice Collection Kenny at his very best! Solid Live Effort Kenny Chesney always puts out a winner!

Live: Live Those Songs Again Kenny Chesney Manufacturer: Bna Entertainment ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music New Traditionalist | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music Similar Items: It Just Comes Natural Like Red on a Rose Love, Pain & the Whole Crazy Thing The Road and the Radio Enjoy The Ride ASIN: B000HEWGFG Release Date: 2006-09-19

Tracks:

1. Live Those Songs
2. Young
3. Never Gonna Feel Like That Again
4. Beer In Mexico
5. Keg In The Closet
6. What I Need To Do
7. I Go Back
8. When The Sun Goes Down
9. On The Coast Of Somewhere Beautiful
10. Anything But Mine
11. Back Where I Come From
12. Don't Happen Twice
13. How Forever Feels
14. She Thinks My Tractor's Sexy

Amazon.com

Live country albums are relatively scarce these days, and that's regrettable. Granted, the studio is a remarkable place, yet there's something about a quality concert recording--the immediacy and raw interaction with the audience--that no studio effort can match. While most concert albums are recorded at one location, Kenny Chesney created this collection from tapes of five years of shows at various locales. The material reflects the past eight years of his career, including "How Forever Feels" from 1998, "She Thinks My Tractor's Sexy" from 1999, and "What I Need to Do" from 2000. "When the Sun Goes Down" comes complete with Uncle Kracker, who appeared on the single. There's an edgy version of 2005's "Beer in Mexico" and a remarkable performance of "Anything But Mine" in which a surprised Chesney stands by as the audience takes over the chorus. What's amazing is the blazing-hot consistency of the band throughout. While their backing reflects Chesney's arena-rock influences (no number is shorter than four minutes), his charisma, energetic presence, and ability to connect is pure country. --Rich Kienzle

Customer Reviews:

Great Live Album.......2007-01-18

It was cool to hear his old songs with his new voice. I think his voice is more smooth and rich than it used to be (I liked his old voice too). Anyway, good sound, mixed well, upbeat, great song selection. Not alot of his "MEGA HITS", but we can hear those anytime. I really enjoyed this live album, totally recommend.

Nice Collection.......2007-01-11

An excellent collection of some of Kenny Chesney's best songs, all done live!

Kenny at his very best!.......2007-01-05

This CD is AWESOME! It's been in my CD player ever since I got it and I play it over and over again. It's great hearing my favorites and some new Kenny Chesney songs. I also love hearing his commentary on some of the songs.

Solid Live Effort.......2007-01-04

Chesney is still a drugstore cowboy, but a pretty good one at that. Anyone wanting to hear his greatist hits live should pick this up. Sound quality is terrific and the band tight. I would highly recommend it.

Kenny Chesney always puts out a winner!.......2007-01-03

I love Kenny Chesney so of course I love this album. Great choice of live songs to put together on an album!

Average customer rating: So wonderful to hear again! One awsome CD The 50 Greatest Love Songs Not worth it. Fifty Fifty

The 50 Greatest Love Songs Elvis Presley Manufacturer: Bmg / Elvis ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Contemporary | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Classic | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Rockabilly | Oldies & Retro | Rock | Styles | Music General | Oldies & Retro | Rock | Styles | Music General | Traditional Country | Country | Styles | Music Similar Items: ELV1S 30 #1 Hits ELVIS 2ND TO NONE Amazing Grace: His Greatest Sacred Performances Elvis Ultimate Gospel Peace in the Valley: The Complete Gospel Recordings ASIN: B00005NP7U Release Date: 2001-09-11

Tracks:

1. Always On My Mind
2. And I Love You So (Alternate Take 1)
3. Suspicious Minds
4. Don't Cry Daddy
5. Are You Lonesome Tonight
6. Surrender
7. It's Now Or Never
8. The Wonder Of You
9. You've Lost That Loving Feeling
10. It's Impossible
11. Until It's Time For You To Go
12. You Don't Have To Say You Love Me
13. For The Good Times
14. Spanish Eyes
15. There Goes My Everything
16. Make The World Go Away
17. She Wears My Ring
18. Unchained Melody
19. It's Only Love
20. I Just Can't Help Believin'
21. Let It Be Me
22. Rags To Riches
23. I've Lost You

Tracks:

1. I Can't Help Falling In Love
2. Hawaiian Wedding Song
3. Fame And Fortune
4. Good Luck Charm
5. She's Not You
6. Suspicion
7. The Girl Of My Best Friend
8. The Thrill Of Your Love
9. Pocketful Of Rainbows
10. There's Always Me
11. Love Letters
12. I'll Remember You
13. It Hurts
14. You Don't Know Me
15. Love Me Tender
16. True Love
17. I Was The One
18. I Want You, I Need You, I Love You
19. Loving You
20. Love Me
21. Old Shep
22. That's When Your Heartaches Begin
23. Young And Beautiful
24. Don' t Ask Me Why
25. As Long As I Have You
26. Don't
27. (Now And Then There's) A Fool Such As I

Amazon.com

It's a shame that only one side of Elvis' multi-faceted talent is remembered 25 years on from his death but there is so much more to the millennium's greatest performer than garish jump suits and shaky legs. The 50 Greatest Love Songs reminds us what a great singer Presley was; coming from the heart with more feeling and passion than most could ever imagine, all 50 of these songs are classics of the last four decades. The double disc set includes all the up-tempo standards like the incredible "Suspicious Minds", "I just can't help believin'" and "Always On My Mind" plus the Dusty Springfield signature tune "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me". Also included are some of his older works from before and during the cinema years like "Good Luck Charm", "Love Me Tender" and "Old Shep". So no blue shoes, no sequinned jump suits, just the king singing about life, love and heartache. --Georgina Collins

Customer Reviews:

So wonderful to hear again!.......2007-07-05

This is a wonderful album....brought back so many memories from my youth. Elvis' voice is so sexy and soothing and perfect for these songs. Well done CD...clear and very good sound.

One awsome CD.......2007-05-15

Enough said. One awsome CD! Buy it.
If you love Elvis, you'll love this CD.

The 50 Greatest Love Songs.......2007-04-15

I am a huge Elvis fan, especially his love songs and gospel music. This CD is excellent and is a very comprehensive collection of his love songs. Even songs that were made famous by other artists, are sung well by him. His renditions are a pleasure to listen to. There is only one Elvis!

Not worth it........2007-01-23

Recordings sound like they were all done the same day,
in as little time as possible, with the least amount
of studio talent. Terrible.

Fifty Fifty.......2007-01-11

About half the songs are great old songs I'm familiar with, the other half are songs made famous by other artists and most are clangers for Elvis that are painful to listen to.

Average customer rating: Put some money in the juke box. great songs from a great singer Willie Nelson sings the songs of Cindy Walker Fantastic CD Willie sings Cindy

You Don't Know Me: The Songs of Cindy Walker Willie Nelson Manufacturer: Lost Highway ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Country | Styles | Music Outlaw & Progressive Country | Country | Styles | Music Western Swing | Country | Styles | Music General | Traditional Country | Country | Styles | Music Similar Items: This Old Road Pay the Devil All the Roadrunning Last of the Breed The Little Willies ASIN: B000E1NX4K Release Date: 2006-03-14

Tracks:

1. Bubbles In My Beer
2. Not That I Care
3. Take Me In Your Arms
4. Don't Be Ashamed Of Your Age
5. You Don't Know Me
6. Sugar Moon
7. I Don't Care
8. Cherokee Maiden
9. The Warm Red Wine
10. Miss Molly
11. Dusty Skies
12. It's All Your Fault
13. Just Walkin' Out The Door

Amazon.com

Though Willie Nelson's thematic albums in recent years have been hit-and-miss, this labor of love is a thorough delight. One Texas legend pays tribute to another and evokes the inspiration of a third, as Nelson puts his stylistic signature on the songbook of Cindy Walker, with arrangements channeling the spirit of Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys (whose most familiar songs include many of Walker's). Nelson's conversational phrasing refreshes the familiar title track and brings out the soulful depths of heartfelt (and heartsick) balladry such as "Not That I Care." The nimble band features the interplay of Playboys alum Johnny Gimble on fiddle and the legendary Buddy Emmons on steel guitar, under the production of Nashville veteran Fred Foster. Saloon songs such as "Bubbles in My Beer" and "The Warm Red Wine" meet the mythic West of "Cherokee Maiden" and "Dusty Skies" and the weathered resilience of "Don't Be Ashamed of Your Age" and "I Don't Care," as the collection pays testament not only to Walker's range, but to Nelson's interpretive mastery. --Don McLeese

Album Description

Produced by Fred Foster, the man behind such stars as Roy Orbison, Dolly Parton, & Kris Kristofferson, You Don't Know Me: The Songs of Cindy Walker is truly a return to form for Willie. The band performing on the record is made up of several of Nashville's premier session players, who successfully capture the spirit and sound of classic country music. All songs were written by Country Music Hall of Fame inductee (1997), Cindy Walker. At 87, she has a long list of writing credits to her name, which include: "Dusty Skies" recorded by Spade Cooley, Bob Wills, & The Sons of the Pioneers, "Cherokee Maiden" recorded by Bob Wills, Merle Haggard, & Mel Tillis, "Warm Red Wine" recorded by Ernest Tubb and George Jones, "You Don't Know Me" recorded by Elvis Presley, Ray Charles, Jimmy Dean, Henry Mancini, & many more The single, "You Don't Know Me" was made most famous by Willie's close friend Ray Charles on The Modern Sounds of Country and Western Music. "I loved her music," Nelson says of Walker's catalog of playful saloon songs and heartfelt ballads. "Even before we met I felt like I knew her from listening to Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys do her songs. Every night of the week as a teenager I was playing things like "Miss Molly" and "I Was Just Walking Out The Door" somewhere.

Customer Reviews:

Put some money in the juke box........2007-06-16

On this CD, Willie Nelson sings songs written by the late Cindy Walker. He performs 13 of her songs here, which date from 1942 to 1963. Most of these songs were hits way back then for country music legends like Bob Wills, Eddy Arnold, Ernest Tubb, Red Foley and Webb Pierce. Interestingly, Miss Walker wrote most of these songs from a man's point of view, probably because there weren't many popular female country singers back then. (Kitty Wells was the first female country music superstar, and she didn't have her first hit until 1952.) These songs fit Willie Nelson like a glove, and he performs them quite well in his trademark style. I'm sure that Willie's fans will really enjoy this CD.

great songs from a great singer.......2007-05-19

I've always liked Willie Nelson and this is one of his best albums. All songs are good - good easy listening.

Willie Nelson sings the songs of Cindy Walker.......2007-05-09

This is my favorite CD that I've bought in a few years and I buy quite a few! The way Willie sings these songs are as if Cindy wrote them all for him. I can sit and listen to this CD over and over. Cindy was an amazing song writer -one of the greats, and Willie (also one of the greats) certainly does her songs justice.
This is a wonderful tribute CD to both Cindy and Willie Nelson. I HIGHLY, HIGHLY, can't recommend this CD enough!
Be sure to add it to your collection if you haven't already.

Fantastic CD.......2007-01-07

This CD has it all - wonderful Willie Nelson singing and fantastic ballads and songs - a great combination.

Willie sings Cindy.......2006-08-20

Cindy Walker has written some of the best known country songs for many, many years for some of the best artists we have had. "You Don't Know Me", "Sugar Moon", and "Cherokee Maiden" will delight any country music fan, especially if you like Willie Nelson and the flare he adds. "Bubbles In My Beer" is a fun song while "Take Me In Your Arms" can tug at your heart. This CD is a wonderful tribute to a lady who gave so much to the music industry.

Average customer rating: More than a niche singer.... Nancy tugs the heartstrings! Lush and delicious thud "This song don't tell no lies..." and neither does she!

Ruby's Torch Nanci Griffith Manufacturer: Rounder / Umgd ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Country | Styles | Music Outlaw & Progressive Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Traditional Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Classic | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Rounder Records | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: The Calling I've Always Needed You West A Hundred Miles or More: A Collection Hearts in Mind ASIN: B000IOM0QU Release Date: 2006-11-14

Tracks:

1. When I Dream
2. If These Walls Could Speak
3. Ruby's Arms
4. Never Be The Sun
5. Bluer Than Blue
6. Brave Companion Of The Road
7. Grapefruit Moon
8. Please Call Me, Baby
9. Late Night Grande Hotel
10. In The Wee Small Hours Of The Morning
11. Drops From The Faucet

Amazon.com

Folk/country singer-songwriter Nanci Griffith shifts into chanteuse mode on this lovely outing. The sumptuous string-drenched arrangements are a change from Griffith's typically stark recordings featuring acoustic guitar and skeletal backing, but it's a natural progression in her nearly three-decade career. She has previously worked with an orchestra, on 1999's The Dust Bowl Symphony, but those results were mixed, due to the instruments' nearly overwhelming presence. On Ruby's Torch, the accompaniment is more organically integrated, and the sound supports Griffith instead of vice versa. No stranger to covers, Griffith taps Tom Waits for three of his older ballads, Jimmy Webb for one, and a few less famous tunesmiths: Donagh Long, Frank Christian, and Charles Goodrum, whose "Bluer than Blue" is a highlight. The durable "Late Night Grande Hotel," one of Griffith's most enduring originals, also makes an appearance in what could be its defining version. This is beautiful music for somber, but not depressing, moods, and closing-time last calls. The chestnut "In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning," best known in its classic rendition by Frank Sinatra, fits perfectly in this company, and the opening "When I Dream," written by Sandy Mason, sets the tone of regret and longing, both in life and love, that dominates the album. This lush, reflective work is a wonderful vehicle for Griffth's yearning, supple voice. It shows her to be as commanding a torch-song interpreter as a guitar-strumming roots veteran, and points the way for future projects in this vein. --Hal Horowitz

Album Description

Rounder Records is pleased to announce the release of Ruby's Torch, a new album by Grammy-winning singer-songwriter and "folkabilly" artist Nanci Griffith. Ruby's Torch is a collection of intimate torch songs, some penned by Griffith, others by some of her musical heroes. "Recording an entire record of torch songs has been a dream come true for me," says Griffith, "and something my listeners have been asking me to do for many years."

Rather than relying on tried-and-true torch standards, she pays homage to an eclectic array of influences. "When I Dream" has been performed by Crystal Gayle and Willie Nelson, and represents country balladry at its most powerful. Griffith also tips her hat to Jimmy Webb, whose masterful songwriting is at its peak in the touching "If These Walls Could Speak." Griffith offers lush interpretations of three Tom Waits numbers: "Grapefruit Moon," "Ruby's Arms," and "Please Call Me, Baby."

Also included is "Bluer Than Blue," the bittersweet ballad penned by Charles Goodrum and popularized in the late '70s by one of the masters of mellow country-pop, Michael Johnson. Griffith also offers her take on the bluesy, winsome "Drops From the Faucet," written by former Blue Moon Orchestra Guitarist Frank Christian, as well as the delicate yearning of "Never Be the Sun" by Irish baladeer Donal MacDonagh Long.

The one track with a genuine torch pedigree, "In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning" (popularized by the inimitable Frank Sinatra), fits in seamlessly, thanks to Griffith's ability to mesh her many inspirations and deliver them with her own charismatic style.

"The challenge in performing these songs is that you have to somehow remain true to the spirit of the song but infuse it with your own story," Griffith explains. "If you don't fill the song with your own emotions, then you really are just going through the motions."

Backing Griffith on this collection is the Blue Moon Orchestra, which has been with her since 1986. Over the past two decades these musicians have evolved with Griffith every step of the way. Which is what makes the reinvented versions of "Brave Companion of the Road" (from Griffith's 1989 album, Storm) and the title track to her 1991 album, Late Night Grand Hotel, so fascinating.

"Sometimes you find whole new personalities in songs when you perform them in a new setting," Griffith observes. "It's like looking at a landscape from different angles. You can really appreciate all the textures and features of the terrain if you approach it from different directions."

Griffith has been described as a singer-songwriter's singer-songwriter, but the accolade really rings true if you consider some of her biggest fans: Bob Dylan (who requested that Griffith sing "Boots of Spanish Leather" at his Madison Square Garden anniversary concert) as well as Emmylou Harris and Willie Nelson, who have performed Griffith's songs. And then there are the awards: five Grammy nominations (including a win for 1993's Other Voices, Other Rooms) and two more for her dazzling performances on albums by the Chieftains.

Customer Reviews:

More than a niche singer...........2007-04-30

It amazes me how narrow minded some of the reviewers are about her work.....my God...the risk is the reward...is it about comfort food ????? This is not at all uncharacteristic in relation to the total body of her work, either. She may sing about Loretta, but she ain't her!!! Keep on Torchin', Nanci!!!!!!

Nancy tugs the heartstrings!.......2007-04-11

I wouldn't normally go for this kind of schmalz, but Nancy carries this off with passion, and restraint. Beautifully orchestrated, understated arrangements, and Oh That Voice! Fantastic in the car, but please remember...don't cry and drive!

Lush and delicious.......2007-04-01

I admit it. I am totally prejudiced when it comes to Nanci Griffith. I first discovered her music in the mid-1980s when she was a relative newcomer and I was kinda depressed, in need of a special friend. Well, I've been hooked ever since. Nanci's songs are, indeed, like a good friend. They have seen me through both good times and bad times. I love all her albums, some admittedly more than others. Her latest, "Ruby's Torch", is no exception.

Nanci Griffith's new album evokes memories of an earlier one, "Dustbowl Symphony", which was a major departure in style for her at the time. The main differences, of course, are that most of the songs on "Ruby's Torch" are covers and the orchestra is not as overwhelming. It is still lush and delicious, however. But get out your handkerchiefs. By the third song, Tom Waits's "Ruby's Arms", you may just go over the edge. My personal favorite on this album is Donal Long's "You'll Never Be the Sun." And Nanci's own "Late Night Grande Hotel" is always a good one for turning on the waterworks. It really hits close to home for me.

Whether you are a longtime Nanci Griffith fan or are just discovering her, you will not be disappointed in "Ruby's Torch." You may need a teensy hit of Prozac afterward, though. LOL. I can't wait to see Nanci in person in a few weeks as she swings by on her latest tour. It will be interesting to see if she has a string orchestra or just the usual band of Blue Moon suspects led by the fearless James Hooker.

thud.......2007-03-26

Nanci is not a torch singer--this was an unfortunate decision to make this album. It is not what the genre tag suggests--alternative country, texas music--it is another feeble attempt at pop. This listener longs for Nanci's early days.

"This song don't tell no lies..." and neither does she!.......2007-03-11

I have to confess, this isn't quite what I was expecting when I heard Nanci Griffith was making an album of torch songs. That did seem like a pretty good fit for her, and I'm not sure exactly what I did expect, but not this. Which is perhaps why it took me a few listens before I found myself enjoying it. But first impressions can be wrong, and it's definitely grown on me.

For a heavily orchestrated set, there are still moments of more characteristic spareness. This is especially noticeable in the beautiful opening track, "When I Dream." It features waves of soaring strings, but also moments of just Nanci and her guitar between them, and the mix works remarkably well. To varying degrees, that happens again and again throughout the album. There are a number of other standout songs along the way, particularly the three from Tom Waits: "Ruby's Arms," "Grapefruit Moon," and "Please Call Me, Baby." (Waits might seem like an unlikely source for torch songs, but here as always, his songs are far more versatile than his own recordings would have you think.)

As is often the case, we are also treated to a couple of reworkings of her own songs, and "Brave Companion of the Road" has never sounded better. I'm less impressed with the updating of "Late Night Grande Hotel," if only because the original was already so brilliant - and torch-y enough in its own right. Still, it's a natural fit for this set. So is "In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning," which fits much better here than it did on the Clock Without Hands album. (I haven't listened to that one in so long that I can't tell if this is the same recording or not. I'm guessing it's probably not, since she has changed labels since then. To be fair, I seem to recall reading that she only included it on that set because it was her mother's favorite song and she was ill at the time.) Finally, "Drops from the Faucet" might be the best closing track on any of her albums, and it's not quite like anything else she's ever done.

It's not perfect. "Bluer than Blue" is a bit too pop for my tastes, and its contemporary style doesn't quite fit with the overall sound of the album in my opinion. But overall, it's a great set, traditional and original all at once, from a songstress who can usually be counted on for that.

Average customer rating: Dublin Blues Part II Workbench Songs - Guy Clark Guy Clark ages well Another chapter in life Guy Clark really is a national treasure

Workbench Songs Guy Clark Manufacturer: Dualtone Music Group ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Outlaw & Progressive Country | Country | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Country Folk | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: West Snake Farm Old No. 1/Texas Cookin' The Devil You Know The Evening Call ASIN: B000G8NW7Y Release Date: 2006-11-21

Tracks:

1. Walkin' Man
2. Magdalene
3. Tornado Time In Texas
4. Funny Bone
5. Expose
6. Out In The Parkin' Lot
7. No Lonesome Tune
8. Cinco De Mayo In Memphis
9. Analog Girl
10. Worry B Gone
11. Diamond Joe

Amazon.com

The title of this album would seem a tad precious applied to the releases of the majority of Nashville musicians. But Guy Clark--song craftsman, guitar builder--has been doing such finely measured work for all of his storied career that "Workbench Songs" aptly sums up the pride and precision he brings to these 11 offerings. Joined by cowriters Darrell Scott, Rodney Crowell, Gary Nicholson, Lee Roy Parnell, and Verlon Thompson, Clark is at turns wry and poignant in chronicling human acts great and small. And, as usual with his albums, a number of these songs resonate long after first listen. "Walkin' Man," a Celtic-flavored demo recording which kicks off the set, pays homage to the pilgrims and searchers--Gandhi and Woody Guthrie--who had the courage to make their own path. "Out in the Parkin' Lot," the Darrell Scott collaboration which Clark recorded on 1997's live Keepers, has a more lived-in feel here, and better captures the novelistic scene of roadhouse rowdiness. ("Now there's a couple of cowpokes puttin' up their dukes / There wasn't much to it after both of 'em puked.") Clark knows how to deliver these gems with optimum emotional impact: His cover of Townes Van Zandt's aching "No Lonesome Tune" goes bone-deep despite its underplayed pathos, as does "The Randall Knife"-ish "Funny Bone," about a rodeo clown brought down by faithless love. But he's no less affecting on "Tornado Time in Texas," a jaunty country-blues tune spiked with a shuffle chorus ("Blow the tattoo off of your arm"), or on "Cinco De Mayo in Memphis," a wildly surrealistic snapshot of Mexican deckhands in the blue-suede-shoes territory of Graceland. Last year, the Americana Music Association honored Clark with its Lifetime Achievement Award for Songwriter. This album is further proof that he deserved it. --Alanna Nash

Customer Reviews:

Dublin Blues Part II.......2007-05-04

The first album I purchased by Guy Clark was Dublin Blues and that was about six years ago. I still love the CD and listen to it all the time, without skipping any songs. I later purchased Essential Guy Clark, but did not like it nearly as much, the production was lousy and the songs just did not hit me the way the songs on Dublin Blues did. I hemmed and hawed on picking this new one up, but finally did a few weeks ago. Glad I did, this is a wonderful album, very similar in style to Dublin Blues, good tunes and good stories. I guess if you have a winning formula stick with it. The songs have a warmth to them that makes you feel like you are sitting around a campfire or pub listening in person. The stories are all entertaining. Definitely worth the price, and I don't skip any of the songs on this disk either. Tornado time in Texas is my favorite so far, always turn that one up!

Workbench Songs - Guy Clark.......2007-03-09

Guy Clark has been one of America's Finest Songwriters for many years. His songs have been recorded by some of America's most well known Performers like Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson. Workbench Songs is his lastest CD Release that showcases his well honed Songwriting Talent. The 1st Song of CD is "Walkin Man", it is a great ballad that evokes Legends like: Martin Luther King, Woodie Guthrie, Gandi and Chuck Berry. It is the kind of song that tells a timeless story and I have even added it to my own performances. The rest of the Album is equally Great. Guy Clark's style of acoustic Guitar Playing (and Making) is unique, but in the same vein of Woody/Arlo Guthrie, Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson and Ramblin' Jack Elliot. I recommend this Album to Anyone interested in True American Music performed by an Established Songwriter.

Guy Clark ages well.......2007-02-08

Though he is aging, Guy Clark continues to record excellent music. Workbench Songs is a welcome addition to his catalog. May he continue to produce such pleasing work.

Another chapter in life.......2007-01-12

Guy Clark just keeps writing and singing great songs from lifes experiences. Each collection of songs that Guy writes is consistantly exceptional.

Guy Clark really is a national treasure.......2006-10-30

Clark's voice is ageless. The photos on the CD sleeve show a Guy Clark who looks decades older than he did in the photos on his previous album but the voice is as strong as ever. The songs are as strong as well. I played this and followed it up by listening to his first two albums. The sound is more up-to-date on the current recording but, otherwise, Clark's voice doesn't seem to have weakened one whit. Those first recordings have an edge in that they contain songs that have since become classics.

I never get tired of listening to Clark sing. I don't think he's ever done anything second rate. On the new recording, my pick for future classics are "Tornado Time in Texas" (which ranks alongside "Texas Cooking" as a vignette of genuine Lonestarness) and "Out In The Parking Lot" (which he recorded previously on the live CD "Keepers"). A couple of others are favorites of mine, "Cinco de Mayo In Memphis" and "Worry Be Gone". Of course, I also love "Expose'" for its hard look at tabloid journalism. Hell, there's not a loser on the recording.

As a side note, this CD's release date in the USA has been pushed back numerous times. It was originally to be released in September, then it was changed to an October date. That date was also pushed back to November. The current official release of this recording is still a couple of weeks down the road as I write this. Copies of the CD can be obtained from UK sources here on Amazon or you can get a pre-release copy by going through Guy Clark's website and following the links. While the link says autographed copies of the CD are available, mine didn't come with an autograph. Even so, I'm impatient and I'm happy just to get my hands on the recording before it's officially released.

Average customer rating: Reddragon Passionate and Beautiful How Could I Live Without LeAnn Rimes? It would have helped if she didn't sing too LOUD on this one! You Light Up My Life: Inspirational Songs

You Light Up My Life: Inspirational Songs LeAnn Rimes Manufacturer: Curb Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Country General | Country | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Country General | Country | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Contemporary Country | Country | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Contemporary Country | Country | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Country | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Blue Unchained Melody: The Early Years Sittin' on Top of the World LeAnn Rimes Greatest Hits ASIN: B000000DHW Release Date: 1997-09-09

Tracks:

1. You Light Up My Life
2. The Rose
3. Bridge Over Troubled Water
4. I Believe
5. Ten Thousand Angels Cried
6. Clinging To A Saving Hand
7. On The Side Of Angels
8. I Know Who Holds Tomorrow
9. God Bless America
10. How Do I Live (Extended Mix)
11. Amazing Grace
12. National Anthem

Amazon.com

This 1997 album debuted at the top of the pop, country, and Christian album charts. Sadly, it underscored the artistic vacuum surrounding Rimes in the wake of her explosive 1996 hit single "Blue." At a time when female country singers were being lauded for their growing depth and sophistication, this collection of "inspirational songs" seemed anachronistic and downright corny. The concept was more appropriate to a TV-marketed album by some faded legend than a singer so young. Even the best singers would have difficulty bringing anything new to the over-recorded title song, "Bridge Over Troubled Waters," "God Bless America," "Amazing Grace," and "The Star Spangled Banner," songs impossible to redefine. That might explain why Rimes's vocals throughout are as soulless and detached as her performance of "Blue" was passionate and earthy. At times, she sounds as if she's singing from a teleprompter. The album's success is undeniable. Whether it did her talent justice is another matter. --Rich Kienzle

Customer Reviews:

Reddragon.......2007-03-30

The product came quickly. It was exactly as advetised and met expectations. Thank You.

Passionate and Beautiful.......2006-06-14

This is a beautiful album. The recording of "Amazing Grace" is worth the price of the album alone. It will raise the hairs on the back of your neck. I bought this album a few years ago not knowing much about LeAnn Rimes and "Wow" I was blown away. Check this album out and I'm sure you will be too. Nuff said.

How Could I Live Without LeAnn Rimes?.......2006-03-31

This is such a great LeAnn Rimes' album! She has a very beautiful voice and just perfect for these gospel songs. These songs are that kind of you could sing in church. LeAnn Rimes sings with emotion. The song "You Light up My Life" is a great opener and there is very good songs like "The Rose", "Bridge over Troubled Waters" etc. There's no bad song in this album. However, the album has only a few excellent songs, rest of the songs are good but not excellent. I like the lyrics very much but there's something missing. Maybe it is that these songs are covers. However, a great extra for my LeAnn Rimes collection.
Stars: You Light Up My Life, How Do I Live, The Rose, Clinging to a Saving Hand

It would have helped if she didn't sing too LOUD on this one!.......2006-02-20

This wasn't a good followup to Blue to me. It would have helped if LeAnn Rimes didn't sing too LOUD on this one! While the emphasis is on inspirational songs, the music comes off as overproduced, overblown and LeAnn tries to pull off her own Celine Dion by overdoing it a third on most of the ballads.
Even the remake of Debbie Boone's overplayed You Light Up My Life comes off as limp. The listening performance comes off as as disturbing and misconceived, not inspiring at all as the album title wants you to believe. It's like LeAnn was pressured to get a record out on the market after the massive success of Blue. Would have been better if she sang an album of new material instead back in 1997.

You Light Up My Life: Inspirational Songs.......2005-08-04

The songs on this CD were beautifully put together. I liked the combination of spiritual and patriotic music. It has extremely both uplifting and soul-searching songs. It's the best CD's I've purchased in a long time and I'd definately recommend it for anyone's music library.

Average customer rating: RUBBER ROOM Pictures From Life's Darker Side Who knew life was so desperate in the country? Haunting Country Storytelling if John Waters put together a Porter comp, this would be it

Rubber Room: The Haunting Poetic Songs of Porter Wagoner 1966-1977 Porter Wagoner Manufacturer: Omni ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Country | Styles | Music Nashville Sound | Traditional Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Traditional Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music Country Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music Similar Items: Wagonmaster The Open Mind of J.D. Loudermilk Shakin' the Blues Compadres: An Anthology of Duets From the Cradle to the Grave ASIN: B000HOMTDU Release Date: 2006-09-04

Tracks:

1. Out Of The Silence (Came A Song)
2. The Rubber Room
3. George Leroy Chickashea
4. Cassie
5. Fairchild
6. Indian Creek
7. Lonely Comin' Down
8. Bones
9. Jim Johnson
10. Lonelyville
11. My Many Hurried Southern Trips
12. As Simple As I Am
13. Woman Hungry
14. First Mrs Jones
15. The Cold Hard Facts Of Life
16. Shopworn
17. Julie
18. The Caroll County Accident
19. Let Me In
20. Wino
21. The Bottom Of The Bottle
22. Nothing Between
23. Crumbs From Another Man's Table
24. He's Alone Again Tonight
25. Life Rides The Train
26. Little Boy's Prayer
27. My Last Two Tens
28. The Party - Dolly Parton
29. Moments In Meditation

Album Description

Porter Wagoner is a much misunderstood artist. Singing about the peaks and troughs of the human experience from inside a purple sequinned Nudie suit he has created the most extraordinary catalogue of any country music artist, and quite possibly any popular performer, ever. Don't believe me? Then check out the skull cracking and heart rendering reverberations of The Rubber Room, the troubled soul of George Leroy Chickashea, the desperate howl that is Lonely Coming Down and the seething hurt that is Fairchild. Yet amongst this human train-wreck there are jewels of burning pathos and profound spirituality like Moments of Meditation and Little Boy's Prayer. It is indeed this collision of an image that is at times admittedly pure kitsch, with songs and a delivery that are soul-shakingly sincere, that makes Porter Wagoner perhaps the most compelling recording artist of all time. Still not convinced? Then go now, right now, and listen to The Party by Porter Wagoner and Dolly Parton. For the first time the darker, more poetic highlights of Porter Wagoner's astounding career have been compiled with love and care, featuring a slew of tracks never before sighted on CD. Once you have heard this album you will never be quite the same ever again!Psychotronic, dark, heartfelt country... with a touch of showbiz! First time on CD! Deluxe collectors 16 page package featuring original LP artwork and exclusive liner notes. All tracks are remastered in 2006 from the original master tapes! Compiled and curated by noted musician (Snog, Soma, Black Lung) and film composer David Thrussell.

Customer Reviews:

RUBBER ROOM.......2007-07-17

This was a very good C D. Music like it used to be real glad I got it

Pictures From Life's Darker Side.......2007-04-28

The fact that Porter Wagoner brought non-other than James Brown in to perform at The Grand Ol' Opry should give you some indication that he is much more than a pompador & purple Nudie suit.

Johnny Cash once remarked, "No one tells a story like Porter Wagoner" & the likes of "Fairchild" & "Jim Johnson" are all the proof you need. Murder, lust, madness,& sheer unmitigated heartbreak abound here. In short, this as macabre as Country Music gets. With perhaps, just the right amount of unintentional kitch thrown in to sweeten the deal. Regardless of that, the sincerity of of "Moments Of Meditation" & "Lonely Comin' Down" cannot be denied.

Though perhaps somewhat overshadowed by a certain tall haired protege, many of the songs here reveal not only a consummate craftsmen, but also someone willing to push the boundries of his genre. I'd be hard pressed to find another song quite like "Rubber Room" filed under "Country". At times, it borders on 60's Psyche. Fortunately, Wagoner's forays into Disco have not been included.

Songs like, "Fairchild" & "The First Mrs. Jones" have more in common with the Pulp Noir novels of Jim Thompson than anything you might have seen on Hee Haw. Despite sometimes lush arrangements, these songs capture the true bleakness lying behind Country's shopworn cliches. Many of the songs here bring a chill as they tickle the funnybone.

While Hank Williams Sr.'s Luke The Drifer recordings are an obvious influence, I'd say it all lies somewhere inbetween a Countryfied Serge Gainsbourg & Leon Payne's "Psycho".

Maudlin, macabre & heartfelt, this is one of the finest Wagoner collections on offer. Not to mention some of the darkest stuff to ever come out of Nashville. It's rapdily becoming one of my favorite Country albums of all time. Much more than the man who introducted us to Dolly Parton, here's proof that Wagoner is truely one of the most underrated figures in Country Music.

Who knew life was so desperate in the country?.......2007-04-20

Desperation, poverty, adultery, insanity, murder... they're all present and accounted for. Vintage country music is great stuff! An excellent collection from one of country music's unsung greats. Hipsters will love this...

Haunting Country Storytelling .......2007-03-29

First off, this is not a greatest hits package, so if you are interested in that, you might want to look at some of the RCA packages that are excellent. But . . .
Storytelling has long been a basic facet of Southern life and country music strongly reflects the storytelling infleunce. There was a time when those stories weren't all happy, fluffy pieces like you will hear today. Go far enough back in country music history and murder songs abound, some repentant, others defiant. "Rubber Room" compiles a ranging collection of story songs recorded by Porter Wagoner. The truth is that these songs aren't always pleasant and they aren't feel good. But they plunge into the depths of the human condition with deep insight. What you get is a portrait of an extremely strong artist performing some powerfully written songs. Summarizing them is difficult so I would say they best thing you could do is experience this CD. Everything from miscegenation to adultery to the paralyzing impact of alcohol is explored here. And it helps to underscore what all of us Southerners have known, Porter Wagoner is a fine singer and interpeter of song.

if John Waters put together a Porter comp, this would be it.......2007-02-21

Great stuff...the kind you will never hear on the radio...unless you listened to Laura Cantrell's show on WFMU.

Music Album:

1. Country: The Essential Album
2. Cream of Country, Vol. 8 [Import]
3. Crocus in the Snow
4. Dreaming Of Home
5. Drivin' Sideways
6. East Tennessee Christmas
7. Essentials [Original recording remastered]
8. Even Stevens
9. Everybody Knows [Import]
10. Follow Your Heart

Music Album