Finally a great Burl Ives compilation!
Candace Scott | Lake Arrowhead, CA, USA | 02/29/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Burl fans have waited years for a quality CD which includes most of his great songs. Though this compilation omits a few of his treasures, it's still the best Greatest Hits package out there. If you own only one Burl Ives album, then make it this one. Unfortunately, current marketers rehash many of Ives' worst songs, the ones geared towards small children, basically novelty songs. Unfortunately, there are a couple of these clunkers of this album, but you can easily skip over those.Most of this is an adult album with some of the most common-sense and beautiful singing you will ever hear. Many of the cuts were recorded in 1960 with just Burl, his guitar and a few special effects. The songs are American standards and Burl's interpretation is marvelous throughout. His penetrating, unique voice will send shivers down your spine with his rendition of Riders in the Sky. There are some curious omissions, like Mule Train, John Henry and Lindy Lou. You can buy "Wayfaring Stranger" for those gems.Ives is a master at singing these songs and this is a honest, stripped-down, unadorned masterpiece. They don't make music like this anymore, and as far as this genre goes, this is as good as it gets."
A True Delight
Sandra Collins | Sequim, WA USA | 06/11/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This CD is advertised as having charm, humour and sincerity. All true. My husband has been telling me for over 20 years about Burl Ives singing Ghost Riders in the Sky, but I didn't pay much attention. I mean, I have heard that song by other artists before, and it didn't impress me. Then finally, one day I was trying to think of some little gift for him to show that I love him so much, and this song came to mind. I went on Amazon, typed in the song and artist, and there it was. Clicked "Buy It Now", and promptly forgot about it. In short order, there it was in the mailbox, and hubby out of town. I opened it (remember, it was bought as a present for HIM), and just sat and smiled and smiled and smiled as I listened. The Riders In the Sky brought tears to my eyes. I have heard that song before, but never like this version!! Every song is a feast to the ears. Pure listening pleasure. I suspect I will have to order my own since we have separate offices!!!"
Enjoyable, Comforting Music
R U Crosley | Montana | 09/12/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Excellent cd, I love happy, humerous music, its a nice change from what you hear on the radio."