Johnny Cash
“PERSONAL FILE”
RATING: 4 SOUND LEVELS
Forget “Walk the Line.” If you’re looking to understand Johnny Cash, pick up this fantastic two-disc set of songs he sang–just him and his guitar–in a series of informal, private sessions that predated Rick Rubin’s “American Recordings” concept by almost 20 years. On these 49 never-heard songs, Cash recalls his childhood, his early performing days and the faith that meant so much to him. The first disc, recorded mostly in 1973, features Cash singing folk songs, contemporary and classic country and some of his own compositions. Often, he introduces the songs with warm, personal remembrances. The second disc comprises spirituals recorded between 1973 and 1982, some soothing, some apocalyptic, all revealing his keen interest and understanding of the Bible. The cumulative effect is that of having Cash right in front of you, performing a private, personal concert. Absolutely breathtaking.