Jack Greene "What Locks The Door" Classic Album Review

Greetings from Asheville, where good music is always on the turntable, or in the CD player.  Today’s Classic Album Review is a 1967 release from Jack Greene.  What Locks The Door was Jack’s second album of the year on Decca, featuring one of his big hits, which also was made the title cut.  The album, itself, was successful, as well, peaking at number three on the album charts.

The album opens with Jack’s version of one of Lynn Anderson’s early releases, “Too Much Of You”.  Great version handled flawlessly by Jack.  This could have easily been a hit for him.

Jack’s version of the Connie Smith hit, “Cincinnati, Ohio”, is okay, but not anything special.  The arrangement feels like it’s lacking a little something, soundwise,  and I think it’s because the song works better with the fuller, Nashville Sound that’s heard on the Connie Smith record.

On the other hand, his take on the Bobby Lewis hit, “Love Me And Make It All Better” is stellar.  Had the Lewis version not been a hit, Jack’s version could have easily been.  It’s as good as the original.

You could argue that Jack Greene was an underrated vocalist, and this album could be good evidence.  Some of his albums were lacking, but not this one, and another prime example is his take on the classic “My Elusive Dreams”.  Very fine sound, here.

“Left Over Feelings” is one of the originals found on the album.  Good quality piece, that isn’t quite the same league as some of the other songs, here, but still very listenable, and of course, heightened by a fine performance by Jack Greene.

Side one ends with another of the originals, the one I think is the best on the disc, “We’ll Try A Little Bit Harder”.  Nice, care-free sound, with it’s medium tempo and lite sound.  Very good ending for the first side.

Side two opens with a song that hit for Ray Price, “I’m Still Not Over You”.  Of the covers I’ve heard, Wilma Burgess has the best, but Jack’s isn’t bad.  Vocally stellar, and overall, a  good track.

On Glen Campbell’s “Gentle On My Mind”, the sound is actually little fuller than the original, believe it or not.  Good, solid performance on this track, I’d say one of the better covers I’ve heard.

Like many albums of this era, this disc is loaded with covers, which continue with Bill Anderson’s hit “No One’s Gonna Hurt You Anymore”, of which this version is great, nearly as good as the Anderson hit version.

The third of the original sounds, here, is “Don’t Put Your Hurt In My Heart”, a bluesy-type track that shows Jack’s ability with the blues sound, very well.  The song, itself, is rather ordinary, but Jack’s performance makes the track stronger than many other artists would.

Hmmm….Jack Greene singing Buck Owens….does it work?  Pretty well, actually, as he tackles the Owens ballad “Your Tender Loving Care”.  Not nearly as twangy as the Owens original, utilizing a smoother style, but it works pretty well, here.

The album wraps with the title cut, a big hit for Jack Greene in late 1957, spending a month at number two, but never hitting number one.  ”What Locks The Door” is a strong track that was worthy of it’s performance as a single.  A Jack Greene classic that deserves mention in the same breath as “Statue Of A Fool”, “There Goes My Everything”, and “You Are My Treasure”.

Long out of print, I had little problem finding used copies of this disc, most around $10.

Of course, the title hit gets the Standout Track nod, while the Hidden Gem goes to “Love Me And Make It All Better”.  ”Don’t Put Your Hurt In My Heart” isn’t bad, but the composition, itself, isn’t quite as strong as the other eleven, thus I give it the Weakest Track.

Overall, one could argue rather strongly that this was Jack Greene’s best album and it would be hard to argue against it.  Even though it’s heavy on covers, the chosen tracks are high quality pieces that Jack and his producer, Owen Bradley, were able to take and make some very good alternative versions that are strong pieces.  I have to rate this one a 4 out of 5.

Your thoughts?

Saving vinyl, one record at a time.
Tweet

Jack Greene "What Locks The Door" Classic Album Review

Linda Ronstadt "Crazy" Single Of The Day

Greetings from Asheville, where today’s Single Of The Day is a 1970′s cover of one of the most iconic records ever made.  ”Crazy”, the Willie Nelson composed song that Patsy Cline turned into an iconic part of country music, a record that surely has to rank as one of the ten greatest, ever. When a song enjoys that high of a status, it’s always at least slightly risky for someone to later, do a cover.

In late 1976, though, Linda Ronstadt did just that.  Linda was enjoying steady success on both the country and the pop charts, often times releasing a single with a country sound on one side and a pop/rock sound on the flip.  This case wasn’t different, as one side, “Someone To Lay Down Beside Me”, was pitched to Top 40 and Adult Contemporary stations, while “Crazy” was worked at country radio by Asylum Records.  In this case, “Crazy” turned out to be the more successful side, as it’s flip failed to crack the Top 40, while peaking just inside the AC top 30.  ”Crazy”, on the other hand, caught the attention of country radio and it’s listeners, and became her fourth top ten hit, as it peaked at six in early 1977.

Your thoughts?

Saving vinyl, one record at a time.

Tweet

Linda Ronstadt "Crazy" Single Of The Day

Roy Clark "The Tip Of My Fingers" Single Of The Day

Greetings from Asheville, where good music is always on the turntable, or in the CD player, even on the MP3 machine.  Today’s Single Of The Day, was the first hit for a young banjo and guitar whiz named Roy Clark.

Having already gained some exposure on national TV, courtesy of Jimmy Dean’s show, Roy was signed to Capitol Records, as 1963 dawned, and by the Summer, the single that would become his first big hit was arriving at radio stations across the nation.  ”The Tip Of My Fingers” had already been a top ten hit, a couple of years earlier for it’s writer, Bill Anderson, but that didn’t stop Roy’s version from catching the attention of country, as well as some pop listeners.  Roy Clark’s version made it’s Country 40 debut in July of 1963, and would climb into the top ten, by the end of Summer, becoming the first of nine top ten hits, and pointing a career that would ultimately culminate in induction to the Country Music Hall Of Fame.

Your thoughts?

Saving vinyl, one record at a time.

Tweet

Roy Clark "The Tip Of My Fingers" Single Of The Day

Greetings from Asheville, where good music is always on the turntable, or in the CD player, even on the MP3 machine.  Today’s Single Of The Day, was the first hit for a young banjo and guitar whiz named Roy Clark.

Having already gained some exposure on national TV, courtesy of Jimmy Dean’s show, Roy was signed to Capitol Records, as 1963 dawned, and by the Summer, the single that would become his first big hit was arriving at radio stations across the nation.  ”The Tip Of My Fingers” had already been a top ten hit, a couple of years earlier for it’s writer, Bill Anderson, but that didn’t stop Roy’s version from catching the attention of country, as well as some pop listeners.  Roy Clark’s version made it’s Country 40 debut in July of 1963, and would climb into the top ten, by the end of Summer, becoming the first of nine top ten hits, and pointing a career that would ultimately culminate in induction to the Country Music Hall Of Fame.

Your thoughts?

Saving vinyl, one record at a time.

 

Ultimate Twang Radio Show Playlist For March 21, 2013

Greetings from Asheville, where great music is found every week on the World Famous Ultimate Twang Radio Show!  Live, every Thursday from 4 to 7p EST on the website of Asheville Free Media, we play three hours of the best country gold you will hear.  From the era of Garth Brooks and Alan Jackson, all the way back to the sounds of Uncle Dave Macon and Jimmie Rodgers.  Songs you haven’t heard in forever, and some you may experience for the first time.  Plus, if you can’t join us for the live broadcast, you can always listen to the archived version on our page at Asheville Free Media, beginning Friday mornings.  Simply go to the page, scroll down, and click the gray play button.

Click on the name for the link to the Asheville Free Media site.

And, if you still need even more proof that we are playing the best, here’s last week’s play list….

Ultimate Twang Radio Show Playlist For March 21, 2013

Ricky Skaggs	Heartbroke	1982; #1 hit!
Forester Sisters	Don’t You	1989
Jack Greene	There Goes My Everything	1966; #1 hit!
Loretta Lynn	Wine, Women, And Song	1964
Hank Thompson	I Wasn’t Even In The Running	1963; Almost Hit
George Jones & Tammy Wynette	We’re Gonna Hold On	1973; #1 hit!
Bascam Lamar Lunsford	Mr. Garfield	1927
Warner Mack	The Bridge Washed Out	1965; #1 hit!
T. Texas Tyler	Tattler’s Wagon	1954
Vince Gill	Whenever You Come Around	1994
Jack Greene	Love Takes Care Of Me	1968
Ernest Tubb & Justin Tubb	Blue Eyed Elaine	1979; Classic Album Track
Clay Walker	This Woman And This Man	1995; #1 this week!
Marty Robbins	The Hanging Tree	1959
Jack Greene	The Whole World Comes To Me	1970
Wilburn Brothers	We Need A Lot More Happiness	1968; Almost Hit
Webb Pierce	Fool Fool Fool	1967; his last top 10 hit
Jack Greene	Statue Of A Fool	1969; #1 hit!
The Kendalls	You’d Make An Angel Wanna Cheat	1980
John Denver	Dreamland Express	1986; his last top 10 hit
Willie Nelson	Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain	1975; #1 hit!
George Hamilton IV	Canadian Pacific	1969; Almost Hit
Charly McClain	Men	1980; her 1st top 10 hit
Eddy Arnold	There’s No Wings On My Angel	1950
Diamond Rio	One More Day	2001; #1 this week!
Jack Greene	Lord Is That Me	1970
Gene Watson	Got No Reason For Going Home	1985
Gene Watson	Farewell Party	1979
Skeets McDonald	Goin’ Steady With The Blues	1958; Classic Album Track
Ronnie McDowell	World’s Most Perfect Woman	1979
Willis Brothers	Give Me 40 Acres (To Turn This Rig Around)	1964
George Strait	Blue Clear Sky	1996; #1 hit!
Steve Wariner	Drivin’ & Cryin’	1994; Almost Hit
Jack Greene	What Locks The Door	1967
Judds	One Man Woman	1990
Alan Jackson & Jimmy Buffett	It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere	2003; #1 hit!
Don Williams	I’ve Been Loved By The Best	1989
T. Graham Brown	Darlene	1988; #1 hit!
Jack Greene	All The Time	1967; #1 hit!
Kenny Rogers & The 1st Edition	Ruby Don’t Take Your Love To Town	1969; Almost Hit
Bobby Bare	How I Got To Memphis	1970
Kathy Mattea	Lonesome Standard Time	1992
Jack Greene & Jeannie Seely	Wish I Didn’t Have To Miss You	1970
Jim Reeves	We Thank Thee	1962
Conway Twitty	That’s My Job	1988
Merle Haggard	The Fightin’ Side Of Me	1970; #1 hit this week!
Vern Gosdin	Turn Turn Turn	1984; Classic Album Track
Bonnie Guitar	A Woman In Love	1967
The Browns	The Three Bells	1959; #1 hit!
Johnny Russell	You’ll Be Back (Every Night In My Dreams)	1978; Almost Hit
Jack Greene	You Are My Treasure	1968; #1 hit!
Emmylou Harris	Mr. Sandman	1981

Ray Price "Love Life" Classic Album Review

Greetings from Asheville, where good music is always on the turntable, or in the CD player.  Today’s Classic Album Review remembers a 1964 effort from the legendary Ray Price.  Coming off his first number one album, Night Life, Ray’s next effort fared almost as well.  Love Life was released by Columbia in August, 1964, peaking at number three on the bestseller lists.  There was one single on the album, the top ten hit, “Please Talk To My Heart”.

Opening this collection, is the Floyd Tillman classic, “This Cold War With You”.  If Hank Williams was the greatest songwriter of the 1940′s and 1950′s, then Floyd may well have been number two.  Outstanding composition, performed to perfection by one of Country music’s greatest singers.

In 1968, Ray hit the top ten with a polished version of “Take Me As I Am (Or Let Me Go)”, but here, you are treated to a classic shuffle version, which is nothing short of stellar.  Quicker paced, and perfectly executed by Ray and his band, the Cherokee Cowboys.

There’s no drop-off on the next track, “All Right (I’ll Sign The Papers)”, which four years later, became a Country 40 single for Mel Tillis.  One has to wonder how big a hit it could have been had Ray’s version been put to 45 rpm.

Next, Ray tackles the Patsy Cline classic “I Fall To Pieces”, and does so rather well.  Of course, the end result sounds nothing like the Cline standard, but one has to like how Ray adapts the song to a harder sound with that classic Ray Price shuffle beat.

“I Don’t Know Why (I Keep Loving You)” is yet another strong piece to be found on this album.  Sounding like a broken record, but again, great overall sound, strong composition, and flawless vocal work.

Side one wraps with “How Long Is Forever”, which again, shows Ray at his best, as he vigorously attacks each note, hitting each one squarely on the head.  As usual, I am shaking my head in utter amazement, as I listen, because Ray Price’s vocal abilities at his peak, were incredible.

The album’s only single gets the nod as the opening track on side two. “Please Talk To My Heart” was a top ten hit during the Fall of 1964, yet is one of Ray’s under-appreciated hits, a real shame.  This is Ray at his best.

“A Way To Free Myself” simply continues the stampede of outstanding music from the master.  Great beat mixed with a stellar song and of course, Ray Price behind the microphone.

Many may remember the Patsy Cline version of “You’re Stronger Than Me”, which wasn’t a Cline hit, but has been part of several Patsy Cline collections, over the years.  I’ve always liked her version and still do, of course, but after a couple of listens to Ray’s version, I’m thinking this is how the song should be sang.  It fits the Ray Price sound, perfectly.

Not unusual for a Ray Price album to feature a pretty steady beat, throughout, usually in the aforementioned shuffle style, and no different, here.  Yet, Ray pulls it off, consistently, because of some excellent song choices made by Ray and his producer.  ”Same Old Memories” is yet another example of that.  You have to love the great steel guitar work, here, though to be fair, it’s outstanding throughout, but especially noticeable, here.

What’s amazing, is how Ray is able to take the Bill Anderson classic “Still” and successfully turn it into a rhythmic pounding of country beat, with just a bit of blues thrown in.  When you change a song as much as it’s changed, here, you are taking a chance, yet Ray pulls it off.

If you were to rate singers on how well they can handle a Hank Williams song, Ray Price would have to be towards the top, and the album’s final track, “Cold Cold Heart”, is prime example why.  Granted, there are some similarities in their vocal styles, but Ray is able to take the song and give it a completely different feel than the original.  Whereas Hank’s classic is more mournful, Ray’s version is more about the pain, which he so effectively emits in his singing.  Unbelievable track.

Sadly, this album is out of print, but well worth a search for a used copy, of which I found a few, most under $10.

My Standout Track is “Please Talk To My Heart”, while my Hidden Gem pick (a tough choice from so many great tracks) is “This Cold War With You”.  Nothing here to merit a Weakest Track.

Overall, another outstanding example of why I think Ray Price is one of the greatest vocalists of all-time.  And credit must also be given to the musicians who play flawlessly (I believe it was his backing band, The Cherokee Cowboys), as well as the producers, Don Law & Frank Jones, who found a strong collection of songs for this album.  This is simply a great album, an easy 5 out of 5.

Your thoughts?

Saving vinyl, one record at a time.
Tweet

Ray Price "Love Life" Classic Album Review

Rev It Up, Its Time To Roll Through Another Edition Of Ultimate Twang | Asheville FM | Community Radio

Rev It Up, Its Time To Roll Through Another Edition Of Ultimate Twang | Asheville FM | Community Radio.

It’s going to be a great show, today, just click the link to see and hear more, beginning at 4p EST!

Rev It Up, Its Time To Roll Through Another Edition Of Ultimate Twang | Asheville FM | Community Radio

Marty Robbins "By The Time I Get To Phoenix" Classic Album Review

Greetings from Asheville, where good music is always on the turntable or in the CD player.  Marty Robbins, one of the all-time greats, and one whose albums I always look forward to giving a spin.  Today’s Classic Album Review was a bit of a departure for Marty, as he experimented with the easier sounds that were working so well for Eddy Arnold, Ray Price, and the late Jim Reeves. By The Time I Get To Phoenix still had Country elements in it, but Pop and even Jazz were just as strong.  Released by Columbia in May, 1968, the album did well for Marty, peaking at number eight, while yielding one top ten single.

The title cut is the opening track, a song made famous by Glen Campbell. Marty’s take is even more mellow than the Campbell version; almost too much so. Marty’s vocals, though, are fine.

Next, Marty gives us his take on the classic “Am I That Easy To Forget”. This may be his best vocal on the album. Simply outstanding.

The album’s overall highlight, though, may be Marty’s version of the Paul Mauriat hit, “Love Is Blue (L’Amour est bleu)”. What? Didn’t know there were vocals to this classic? There are, and can’t imagine anyone singing them better than Marty Robbins does. Yes, it’s a pure Easy Listening sound, but still, an outstanding piece of work.

“Virginia” does have just a touch of that south of the border sound that Marty used so successfully. Nice track.

While the album, as a whole, may get a little monotonous with it’s steady, slow, slick sound, throughout, one can’t find any fault with Marty’s singing, as can be heard, here, on “Until We Meet Again”. If Marty wanted to show that he could do the same style as Eddy Arnold or Ray Price, he did.

Side one ends with a lush production of the Beatles’ classic “Yesterday”. At one time, this was considered the most recorded song of all-time. Marty’s version is a nice, mellow piece.

The album’s only single kicks off side 2. “Love Is In The Air” isn’t quite as lush as much of the rest of the album, but still a smooth, mellow sound. It became a top ten hit for Marty during the Summer of 1968.

“As Time Goes By” is a classic piece, given the Robbins treatment. I like this version. Really nice and works perfect with Marty’s vocals.

“That Old Feeling” is another smooth, laid-back piece that fits like an old, comfortable shoe.  The arrangement is more Dean Martin-ish, but works nearly flawless with Marty.

The sound stays nearly the same with “To Be In Love With Her”.  By this point, one realizes how truly versatile a performer Marty Robbins was.  I really like the full arrangement, here, great track.

The album wraps with “You Made Me Love You”, which like much of the album, is simply another fine piece.  Again, sounding like a broken record, here, but a great performance by Marty Robbins.

Long out of print, this album did see life on vinyl, 8-track, and cassette.  Used copies (vinyl) seem to be running in the $10 to $20 range.

“Love Is In The Air” was the album’s only single and thus, gets the “Standout Track” nod.  ”Love Is Blue” is the easy Hidden Gem pick.  I really don’t find a weak track, here.

Overall, the album as a whole, could get a little monotonous, but on the other hand, each individual track is a high quality piece of music, at worst, and at best, outstanding.  Marty Robbins was an outstanding vocalist, just as versatile as anyone in the history of country music, and this album proves it.  I rate it a 4 out of 5.

Your thoughts?

Saving vinyl, one record at a time.

Tweet

Marty Robbins "By The Time I Get To Phoenix" Classic Album Review

Jack Greene Dead At 83.

The full story, below, courtesy of Yahoo.

Country musics Jack Greene dies in Nashville – Yahoo! News.

Jack Greene Dead At 83.

Marie Osmond "Read My Lips" Single Of The Day

Greetings from Asheville, where good music is always found on the turntable.  Today’s Single Of The Day became Marie Osmond’s final solo top ten hit, in 1986.

Marie Osmond burst onto the scene in 1973, when, at the age of fourteen, she topped the country charts and reached the pop top five with her first single, “Paper Roses”.  However, she wouldn’t return to number one or the top ten in country music, until 1985, when her duet with Dan Seals, ‘Meet Me In Montana”, was released.

Singing solidly in the pop-country sound that had dominated the early part of the decade, Marie’s first single of 1986, became her fourth, overall country top ten hit.  Today’s Single Of The Day, “Read My Lips” made it’s Country 40 debut in April, and would climb to number four.  A medium-up tempo piece that is a solid composition, featuring a good melody and using a great hook for the title.

Marie’s next release, the Paul Davis duet “You’re Still New To Me”, would ultimately be her final number one and top ten country hit.  Two more Country 40 singles followed, but by 1988, her Country 40 career was all but over, as she, like many of her contemporaries, were finding it harder to get their music played, as the format shifted back towards a more traditional sound.

Your thoughts?

Saving vinyl, one record at a time.

Tweet

Marie Osmond "Read My Lips" Single Of The Day

Warner Mack "The Bridge Washed Out" Single Of The Day

Greetings from Asheville, where good music is always on the turntable.  Sometimes an artist can have several hits, yet still seem to be on the forgotten side.  Such is the case with the singer of today’s Single Of The Day, Warner Mack.  He had seven top ten hits between 1965 and 1967, and three more during the rest of the decade, as well as one (“Is It Wrong”) in 1958, making eleven, total.  Yet, when 1960′s singers are talked about, his name doesn’t seem to come up, too often, a real shame, as he made some outstanding music, during that time, including today’s Single Of The Day.

“The Bridge Washed Out” would become the Decca recording artist’s only number one hit, topping the charts in September, 1965.  Featuring a loud steel guitar, along with Mack’s unique vocal style (a style that could have easily been a rock ‘n’ roll voice), this 1960′s mild country-rocker is one of those tracks I just want to crank it up, whenever I hear it.  Great song about a man whose girl is on the other side of the river, waiting for him to arrive for their wedding, but all of the rain has washed the bridge away.

Warner Mack co-wrote the song, and was an accomplished songwriter, writing or co-writing many of his hits, as well as songs for other artists.

Your thoughts?

Saving vinyl, one record at a time.

Tweet

Warner Mack "The Bridge Washed Out" Single Of The Day

Bobby Helms "Just A Little Lonesome" Single Of The Day

Greetings from Asheville, where good music is always found on the turntable.  Today’s Single Of The Day is from a man whose native city was one of my stops in my radio career; Bobby Helms from Martinsville, Indiana.  The name Bobby Helms is still well known in the country music and oldies circles, today, thanks largely to two hits, “My Special Angel”, and the Christmas classic “Jingle Bell Rock”.  Classic country fans are also well familiar with a third, “Fraulein”.  Both “Fraulein” and “My Special Angel” were number one country hits, while “My Special Angel” and “Jingle Bell Rock” were both top ten pop hits.  However, it’s often forgotten that Bobby had two more top ten country singles in 1958, including today’s Single Of The Day.

Released by Decca Records in January, 1958, “Just A Little Lonesome” would make it’s chart debut in March, where it would eventually peak at ten, becoming his third top ten country hit.  A medium-fast tempo, with sounds that integrated pop and country, much like “My Special Angel”.  The melody is a smooth, swinging, easy-to-remember piece.  While it may not be to the same level as his biggest hits, it’s still a good record that’s worth spinning from time to time.

Your thoughts?

Saving vinyl, one record at a time.

Tweet

Bobby Helms "Just A Little Lonesome" Single Of The Day

Today's World Famous Ultimate Twang Radio Show For March 7, 2013

March, 5, 1963, a tragic day in Country music, when a plane crash took the lives of Patsy Cline, Cowboy Copas, and Hawkshaw Hawkins.  Today, on The World Famous Ultimate Twang, we shall remember them, with music from all three legends.  And the program will feature so much more, as well, as we spin the great hits from the past.  This great genre of music has so many legends, and many you will hear, this week, including Conway Twitty, Hank Williams, George Strait, Ernest Tubb, Crystal Gayle, Alabama, Marty Robbins, and more.  The UT Time Machine makes stops to this week in 1965, 1976, and 1993.  And for a little fun, can you name the only U. S. senator to have a chart single while in office (that I know of, at least)?  This late Illinois rep will be heard, as well.  Rounding out things with some vintage sacred sounds from The Chuck Wagon Gang, Bill Monroe, and Tennessee Ernie Ford, it looks to be a great show!  The fun starts at 4p Eastern; make sure your computer is up and ready, and don’t forget to let everyone know to join us for three hours of musical fun with the next Ultimate Twang!  Just follow the link, and click play in the upper right side of the page. http://ashevillefm.org

Today's World Famous Ultimate Twang Radio Show For March 7, 2013

Eddy Arnold "How's The World Treating You" Single Of The Day

Greetings from Asheville, where good music is always on the turntable, spinning at 33 1/3, 45, or 78 revolutions per minute.  Today’s Single Of The Day actually touches on a previous Single Of The Day from October, 2012.  To date, no one has scored more top ten hits in country music, than Eddy Arnold.  Between 1945 and 1980, Eddy had an incredible ninety-two top ten hits, including twenty-eight number one hits.  Several of his top ten hits from the 1940′s and 1950′s, came as double-sided hits, meaning both sides of the single charted, as is the case, here.

In October, we looked at one of those hits, 1953′s “Free Home Demonstration”, a number four hit during the Summer.  The flip side, “How’s The World Treating You”, did just as well.  Debuting on the chart in July, one month after the flip-side,  it would also peak at number four.

Unlike the flip-side, “How’s The World Treating  You” is a slower ballad, the kind Eddy specialized in, even during his days of singing at a higher key with a traditional arrangement.  Eddy was an outstanding vocalist, period.  But it’s these kinds of songs where he was at  his absolute best.

Your thoughts?

Saving vinyl, one record at a time.

Tweet

Eddy Arnold "How's The World Treating You" Single Of The Day

George Strait "Chill Of An Early Fall" Classic Album Review

Greetings from Asheville, where good music is always on the turntable or in the CD player.  Today’s Classic Album Review is a 1991 release for George Strait.  To date, George has released twenty-six studio albums, with Chill Of An Early Fall being his eleventh release. Released in March, by MCA Records, the album sold over a million copies, yet became his first studio album since 1982′s Strait From The Heart to miss the number one spot, as it peaked at four.  Three of the four singles from the album climbed into the top ten, with “Lovesick Blues” missing out, peaking at twenty-four.

The title cut is the opening track of this collection.  ”The Chill Of An Early Fall” is quite a song, an outstanding ballad, and frankly, one of George’s most underrated hits.  Charting in the Fall of 1991, it would climb as high as three on the charts.

Sometimes, within the first few seconds, you can tell that a song is going to be great, and such is the case with “I’ve Convinced Everybody But Me”. Great bouncy rhythm, led by a heavy dose of steel guitar, stellar twin fiddles, great lyrics and melody.  A strong Hidden Gem contender.  Pure country at it’s best.

“If I Know Me” was the album’s first single, and in the Spring of 1991, it became George’s twenty-first number one hit.  A quality piece, showcasing George Strait’s stellar capabilities with a ballad; something of which many must have agreed with, since it spent two weeks at number one.

Performing even better as a single is “You Know Me Better Than That”, spending three weeks at number one during the Summer of 1991.  Bouncy and lite, I’ve always loved the lyrics of this piece.  Great song.

Back in the mid-1960′s, Lefty Frizzell recorded a song titled “A Little Unfair”.  ”Anything You Can Spare”, the album’s next track, has a similar melody, rhythm, and overall feel.  Really like this track, another Hidden Gem contender.

Next, we begin a string of covers, starting with the Bob Wills classic “Home In San Antone”.  While I don’t know that anyone can top the original version, this is an excellent cover of the Texas Playboy sound.

If there’s a weak track on the album, it’s “Lovesick Blues”.  It’s an okay version, but as I’ve said before, simply no one can sing this song nearly as well as Hank Williams could, not even George Strait.  Simply, no one should ever be allowed to record this song, as I don’t think anyone will ever be able to do it proper justice.

“Milk Cow Blues” is an old blues song, written by and first recorded by Kokomo Arnold, back in 1934.  Over the years, artists such as Johnny Lee Wills (Bob’s brother) and Elvis Presley would record versions.  I’ve never thought of George Strait as a blues singer, or for that matter, even having much blues influence in his style, but he pulls off this track quite well, actually.  While it’s Texas swing-style, it still retains a strong blues feel to it.  Good stuff, right here.

“Her Only Bad Habit Is Me” is a ballad, that again, has a little blues feel to it.  While much slower in tempo, it still, like the previous track, has a nice mix of the blues and Texas country sound.  One could hear Bob Wills doing this number.  Would have been perfect for Tommy Duncan’s vocals.

The album returns to a straightforward country sound for the final track, the ballad “Is It Already Time”.  This is George Strait at his best.  A strong end to a strong album.

Originally released on vinyl, cassette, and compact disc, the album is still available on compact disc and MP3 download.  Used compact disc copies appear to be mostly under $5, while used cassettes and vinyl, under $10.

The album’s Standout Track has three strong possibilities, but I have to go with “The Chill Of An Early Fall”.  Again, some great contenders for Hidden Gem, my pick is “I’ve Convinced Everybody But Me”.  ”Lovesick Blues” is my Weakest Track, simply for the reasons I mentioned, above.

Overall, I consider this an excellent album, one that deserves much more acclaim than it seemingly has received.  George Strait fans already know how good this work is, but any fan of country music should like this collection.  I rate this one a solid 5 out of 5.

Your thoughts?

Saving vinyl, one record at a time.

Tweet

George Strait "Chill Of An Early Fall" Classic Album Review

Ronnie Milsap "Only One Love In My Life" Single Of The Day"

Greetings from Asheville, where good music is always found.  Today’s Single Of The Day became one of Ronnie Milsap’s thirty-five number one hits.

By 1978, Ronnie had established himself as a superstar, already scoring nine number one hits and twelve top ten hits.  ”Only One Love In My Life” would extend both of those numbers.  His first single release of the year, the ballad made it’s debut in June, and became his tenth number one hit, spending three weeks on top in July.  One of Ronnie’s outstanding recordings, in my opinion.  A true classic.

And worth noting, the B-side, “Back On My Mind Again”, would eventually become a hit, as well, in 1979, being re-released at the end of 1978.  It would peak at number two.

Your thoughts?

Saving vinyl, one record at a time.

Tweet

Ronnie Milsap "Only One Love In My Life" Single Of The Day"

Donna Fargo "Another Goodbye" Single Of The Day"

Greetings from Asheville, where we always find the good music.  Today’s Single Of The Day, is a 1978 top ten hit for Donna Fargo.  Sixteen times Donna would make the country music top ten, and “Another Goodbye” would be the fifteenth.

Released in July, 1978, “Another Goodbye” started slowly, not making the Country 40 until early September.  Once there, it made a steady climb that would culminate with a top ten placing, peaking at ten in early November.

A ballad, featuring the more polished country-pop styling that was becoming increasingly prevalent during that era, yet a song that I’m not really sure would have worked as well with any other kind of arrangement.  Donna’s performance is among her best, particularly during her Warner Brothers years.  A solid classic that still is deserving of a spin, now and then.

Your thoughts?

Saving vinyl, one record at a time.

Tweet

Donna Fargo "Another Goodbye" Single Of The Day"

Bobby Bare "Hard Time Hungrys" Classic Album Review

The powerful title cut opens this collection, and ranks as one of the album’s strongest tracks.  Some would argue that the message is just as relevant, today, as it was at the time of this album’s release.  Most of us can, at least somewhat relate to the lyrics, here.

“The Farmer Feeds Us All” also contains a strong message that reminds all who listen exactly where they’re food comes from.  Many songs, over the years, have been written concerning the plight of farmers and the American farm, and this one is as good as any I’ve heard.

“Alimony” was the album’s second single (minus the dialogue at the beginning), peaking at eighteen in the Fall of 1975.  Decent quality track, though lyrically, I’m sure many can relate.  Nice mix of pure country and blues.

“Two For A Dollar” talks about the somewhat sad ending that can be part of an estate auction, selling off memories, so to speak.  Perhaps the album’s strongest lyrics, are right here.

The stories of men and women who have been to prison, released, and then eventually wind up back in prison are numerous.  While tragic, Bobby Bare uses a little lighter tone, here, on “Back Home In Huntsville Again”.  An interesting contrast, too, as the spoken dialogue that immediately precedes the song, is a man who has just such a story.  This was the album’s first single, just missing the Country 20 during the late Spring of 1975, peaking at twenty-three.

For side one’s final track, the subject matter switches from that of the convict to that of the unemployed man.  Sang by Bobby Bare and the Bare kids, “Daddy’s Been Around The House Too Long” is the tale from the kid’s point of view.  Not the album’s strongest track, but decent.

Side two opens with “Warm And Free”, where the tale is about someone (we assume is homeless) and how they get food and rest.  An interesting track, though not as strong as some of the other tracks.  But not bad.  Worth noting that it’s the only track that does not have dialogue at the start.

Next, is a song that had already been around awhile, having been recorded a few years prior by Charley Pride, “Able Bodied Man”.  Whereas Pride’s version is a quicker pace, Bobby’s version is slower and bluesier, which I think actually makes the song’s lyrics all the more powerful.  A man whose traveling in search of a job and trying to make a better life.

Another light-hearted piece is “$100,000 In Pennies”, telling of a bank robber who pulls off a successful heist, only to find out that he stole $100,000, but all in pennies.  Maybe he needed one of those Coinstar machines.  Bobby Bare could pull off novelty music as well as anyone, and this is a great example.  Pretty amusing track.

Another tale of the homeless with “Bottles And Boxes”.  It’s a rather sad tale, yet one that’s been lived out all too many times.  Another very effectively written track.  Like the whole album, it’s a fine performance, too, by Bobby Bare.

“Truck Driver, Truck Driver” tells of the hitchhiker.  Lite-hearted tale of a hitchhiker who is a little on the annoying side.  Average track, though kind of fun to hear, occasionally.

The album wraps with a track titled “The Unemployment Line”.  Most of this final track is made up of brief tales told by actual unemployed workers.  In this song, things are so bad that an ex-President and even God, himself, are in the line.  It’s a good end to an album such as this.

Originally released on vinyl, 8-track, and cassette, this album is still available on compact disc, as a “two-fer”, with Bobby’s 1976 album, The Winner And Other Losers.  As for used copies, they are relatively numerous, based on my search, most in the $10 to $20 range, though I did see a few under $10.

My Standout Track nod goes to “Alimony”, while the title cut, “Hard Time Hungrys” gets my Hidden Gem nod.  As for the Weakest Track, there are two or three that lag a bit behind the others, but still, not necessarily weak tracks.  ”Daddy’s Been Around The House Too Long” and “Truck Driver, Truck Driver” aren’t quite as strong, in particular.

Overall, this is an album that is depressing to an extent, but it is made up of quality material, and the dialogue at the beginning of each track helps give that particular cut a deeper perspective of the particular subject matter.  Though this album was released in 1975, it’s easy to argue that it’s just as, if not even more relevant for today.  Another fine effort from the great Bobby Bare.  I rate it a 4 out of 5.

Your thoughts?

Saving vinyl, one record at a time.
Tweet

Bobby Bare "Hard Time Hungrys" Classic Album Review