Kris Kristofferson Album: “Spooky Lady's Sideshow”

Although this album did not contain any popular hits or ever made it to the charts, it has to be my most favorite of his albums (and I have them all). To me the man is a classic poet/warrior and the turn of phrases in these songs bury themselves in your soul with simple stories of eternal emotions.

This record received mixed notices upon its release way back in 1974. I remember buying it as soon as it came out, and not knowing what to make of it. The songwriting, for one thing, is much more abstract than his fameous "classic" songs ("Help Me Make It Though the Night" and all the rest) that the songs seem like they could have been written by a different person. Compare "Stairway to the Bottom," which has a 1967 copyright to any of the other tracks on this album, and the difference is pretty striking.

Happily, this record has really aged well, though. I continue to listen to it even after 30 years! This record features strong (albeit abstract) songs along with first rate arrangements and musicianship from Kris's band. The sound quality on my vinyl LP is excellent, mastered by the pros at The Mastering Lab, so the CD has potential for fine sound, too.

I have been listening to this tape since it's release in 74' and it's just about worn out. I am really glad to see it on CD. This has got to be his best work. It's ashame it never became popular. If you like Kris you'll love this.