joeychitwood
09/16/2006, 11:12 AM
I have a few original Johnny Cash LPs in the past, bought mostly to complete my vinyl collection in the traditional Country-Western music category. For some unknown reason, I purchased the LP American V: A Hundred Highways last week and listened to it for the first time this morning.
Released two years after his death, this album is Cash's last and includes 12 songs, two written by Johnny, and ten covers of other songs. The accompaniment is spare and quiet, consisting of a guitar, organ, piano and bass.
The songs are beautiful and emotional. Johnny Cash's voice is weak in volume but powerful in feeling. I don't think I've ever heard such heartfelt and honest music from any performer. Perhaps one can only open up like this knowing that life is almost over.
Even if you aren't a Johnny Cash fan, I'd recommend you buy this album. It's a fitting final work of a troubled, honest and ultimately spiritual man.
Released two years after his death, this album is Cash's last and includes 12 songs, two written by Johnny, and ten covers of other songs. The accompaniment is spare and quiet, consisting of a guitar, organ, piano and bass.
The songs are beautiful and emotional. Johnny Cash's voice is weak in volume but powerful in feeling. I don't think I've ever heard such heartfelt and honest music from any performer. Perhaps one can only open up like this knowing that life is almost over.
Even if you aren't a Johnny Cash fan, I'd recommend you buy this album. It's a fitting final work of a troubled, honest and ultimately spiritual man.