Search - John McEuen :: The Wild West: Music From the Epic Television Mini-Series

Outstanding Soundtrack

Charles Engel | Bend, OR | 01/19/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you are a fan of "Old West" songs and soundtracks you will most likely love this album. I watched the original mini-series which had very high production values and the soundtrack is no exception.



Many of these tracks are period pieces delivered in an authentic "old-timey" style with simple arrangements and stark vocal treatments.



Others are obviously modern compositions but fit with the other tracks beautifully.



There are Indian chants interspersed with calvary bugle calls and other interesting audio juxtapositions mixed in with whole and partial song tracks.



"Cole Younger" was covered on another Michael Martin Murphy release but this slow, haunting version is much more satisfying by far.



The players brought together for this soundtrack include some of the best artists in the Western/Cowboy/Indian genre including: Don Edwards, MMM, Bill Miller, Red Stegall, Sons Of The San Joaquin, and Lyle Lovett.



I am not as familiar with the rest of the musicians and singers on the disc but intend to get more acquainted with them as I am always researching for "new to me" artists.



I DJ a Cowboy radio show in Bend, OR (Calling All Cowboys on KPOV 106.7) and this disc makes my play rotation on a regular basis.



You may also want to track down the original min-series if it exists on DVD or VHS. It is must see TV for fans of the history of the West."