A Few More CDs Worth Dusting Off
Earlier this week, I blogged about filling up my CD carrier for a holiday housesitting gig. Well, I'm back at my own place now, but I decided to keep plowing through my CD cabinets. I'm still focusing on the "old stuff" -- what I was listening to before I started putting newer songs on my computer. Quite a few albums have ended up in the scrap heap, but here are a few country discs that are always worth dusting off:
Patsy Cline, The Ultimate Collection (2000)
Funny how this double-disc collection fits in just about anywhere -- road trips, cooking dinner, late nights, house parties, when your mom comes over and so on. She's timeless.
Rodney Crowell, The Houston Kid (2001)
I was listening to this in the car, and I kept missing turns because I was so wrapped up in the words. It's a very cathartic album, but he wisely remembered that melodies matter, too.
Livin', Lovin', Losin': Songs of the Louvin Brothers (2003)
Whenever you crave traditional country duets, reach for this. The talent is staggering (Emmylou, Dolly, Merle, Johnny, Vince, etc.) and that Grammy was well-deserved.
Gram Parsons, Sacred Hearts & Fallen Angels (2001)
To me, this two-disc career compilation is ground zero for alt-country. Who knew a song called "Hot Burrito #1" could be so romantic - that is, if you're into unrequited love.
Charlie Rich, Behind Closed Doors (2001 reissue; original release in 1973)
The intricate piano on the title track always draws me in, but I think it's the diverse material that keeps me at attention. "The Most Beautiful Girl" is a knockout, too.
Dar Williams, The Beauty of the Rain (2003)
This astute songwriter indulged herself with a more polished sound and guests like Alison Krauss. If you dread the holidays, "Your Fire Your Soul" is your new anthem.
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Rick says:
I have to agree with you about the “Livin, Lovin, Losin” Louvin Brothers tribute album. I consider it one of my Top 10 country albums of this decade without hesitation. Timeless material expertly performed by a wide range of fine artists ranging from current artists to legends like Johnny Cash and Glen Campbell. I will never grow tired of listening to this masterpiece.
solongsowrong says:
Does anyone know what track/tracks Alison Krauss appears on, in the Dar Williams album?
CT country girl says:
AWESOME SELECTION
I am so happy to see Charlie Rich on your list. I have hardly heard of anyone referring to him & I just love his music…very old school, bluesy country!!!!!!!
Another great song is “You never really wanted me” written by Charlies lover. Classic & timeless heartbreak lyrics…that song gets me everytime!!
peppersprout says:
Another all around great collection of music, Mr. Shelburne !
“Livin’, Lovin’, Losin’” is one of my all-time favorite albums … it’s one of those that just gets better ‘n better every time I listen to it. … a masterpiece it is, Rick!
Karlie says:
I’ll third that the excellent “Livin’, Lovin’, Losin’” is one of my all-time favorites. I remember being fascinated when my dad told me the Haggard duet was recorded in a hotel room.
Dan M. says:
Once again, great line-up of albums here. And I fourth the love for the Louvin tribute album. I don’t know how many times I played that Patty Loveless/Jon Randall duet on “Are You Teasing Me” when that album came out. It was ridiculous.
Leeann says:
I love that album as well. I also second the Crowell album. I love that his songs say meaningful things while also having strong melodies.
Kim says:
More good stuff. You know you can make a career of home sitting for rich people? You would always have a good list of forgotten albums.
Also glad to hear that Patsy’s hometown is going to do more to celebrate her.