Johnny Cash was a genius; and his earlier songs like these recorded on Sun Records prove he had what it took from an early age at that! Johnny sang with a lot of passion and genuine emotion; and I'm very impressed. The quality of the sound is excellent and the artwork is very nicely done.
There's tons of fine music here; we get twenty-four tunes on this great CD and that's very good. The track set starts with "Cry! Cry! Cry!" Johnny does this faultlessly and his voice is nice and strong. Terrific! Of course, Johnny's "Folsom Prison Blues" was a big number that made the airwaves sizzle; and "So Doggone Lonesome" is another song that Johnny aces as effortlessly as if it were mere breathing. Of course, we know it really wasn't all that easy; Johnny's talent always carried him through. In addition, I could never tire of hearing Johnny's "I Walk the Line;" and that percussion is very creative!
"Get Rhythm" showcases Johnny squarely front and center--right where he belongs! Ballads like "There You Go;" "Next in Line;" Give My Love to Rose" and more also show Johnny's excellent singing with a fantastic guitar arrangement that enhances the melody even more.
"You're the Nearest Thing to Heaven" is a most romantic love song--what a performance Johnny gives of this song! It's charming even in our times. "The Ways of a Woman in Love" shines bright; and I also like "I Just Thought You'd Like to Know;" "It's Just About Time;" "Thanks a Lot" and "Forgot to Remember to Forget." "Luther Played the Boogie" is one of my very favorites on this album; and all this leaves me wanting more--lots more!
This is a great introductory CD for anybody just discovering the artistry and talent of Johnny Cash; these Sun Records recordings have been lovingly transferred to CD for us to enjoy over and over again. In addition, Johnny Cash fans should get add this to their collections if they don't have this already. This album is even very good for people interested in the very early beginnings of modern day rock and roll.
