Hank Williams Album: “I Saw the Light [2001 Collection]”

My compliments to Mercury for giving us an original Hank LP on CD complete with liner notes in sterling sound quality. You get Hank's early Sterling recordings such as "Calling You", "Wealth Won't Save Your Soul", "When God Comes & Gathers His Jewels", two duets with Audrey "Jesus Remembered Me" & "Dear Brother", the now standard "I Saw The Light" and a host of tastefully overdubbed non-session demo's-"Angel of Death", "A House of Gold", "How Can You Refuse Him Now?", "I'm Gonna Sing" and "Message To My Mother". Last but not least, you have to take note of the vocal/guitar demo on "Thank God" written by Fred Rose. This is the side of Hank that is rarely seen anymore, but deserves a closer look. If you're a country gospel fan wanting to know about Hank, this is the set to buy. This is more effective than the out of print "Wait For The Light To Shine" that was issued some 6 years later than this and is a must have for any fan of country gospel or of Hank.

These songs are like no others you have ever heard on his other CD's or Albums. I now know why I love his music. He sings these songs, with a message, straight from the heart. His belief in Christianity is evident and I believe he truely knew his Savior. The songs really "hit home" when it comes to the reality of death and faith. They are extremely moving. A different side of Hank. We will meet him in heaven some day.

These songs come from one of the great singer/songwriters in country music. Some highlights aside form the title track include "When God Comes and Gathers His Jewels," "Jesus Remembered Me," "House of Gold," and "How Can You Refuse Him Now," but the entire collection is great and as Harlan Howard said, he was preaching just as fervantly as the minister on Sunday. This is a must have as all of the music is great and is emotional.

CD issue of one of the earliest (1954) Hank Williams albums. There was another CD under this same title a few seasons back and it had these same recordings, undubbed, and a few excerpts from the known extant "Health & Happiness" radio transcriptions. Some expressed dismay at t-h-a-t version. The buyer makes their choice and pays their money. I prefer this one, as it's the original; the one I have on vinyl, audiocassette and now on CD. Granted, the duets with Miss Audrey are a bit hard to take, but the other selections make up for it. The title track is still one of the best recordings ever done by this tragic troubadour and, as is his custom, the soul and sincerity of this great performer still echoes through this collection. The Hank Williams standard is seldom equalled and never surpassed and this collection is sure to please.

in my book hank williams is the top in all of music. this record is one of his best. he just tells it likeit is.