Andrew Smith
Canadian Gordon Lightfoot (1938-2023) not only was a performer in his own right, but he also influenced other recognised country music artists like Mac Wiseman and George Hamilton IV, both of whom recorded whole albums dedicated to his music.
Bear Family have done Lightfoot justice by releasing this album, which should appeal to many country music fans. The CD reissues his first two LPs, Lightfoot (1966) and The Way I Feel (1967), the latter produced in Nashville with Charlie McCoy and Kenny Buttrey.
According to Richard Flohil’s notes, this music “turned Lightfoot into more than a star – a combination icon and musical conscience for a country that … was experiencing the heady celebrations of its centennial year.”
Lightfoot sings his way through a bevy of well-crafted songs in his pleasant yet unique voice, including compositions like the familiar Early Morning Rain (also recorded by Ian and Sylvia and George Hamilton IV, who recorded Steel Road Blues as well, likewise on this CD) and Ribbon Of Darkness. Waylon Jennings recorded That’s What You Get For Loving Me with electric guitar backing (Lightfoot’s version is also on this album).
With a full 26 tracks, the album is a winner, and it complements other Bear Family Gordon Lightfoot reissues. A bonus is the accompanying booklet comprising background notes by Richard Flohil and the lyrics to all the songs on the CD. Overall, this is a highly recommended CD.
