Search - Kenny Rogers & the First Edition :: Anthology

Kenny Rogers & THE BEST EDITION

Michael G. Batcho | McAdoo, PA (USA) | 09/04/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Although Kenny Rogers had a history in the world of music that preceded "The First Edition" (including a time with "The New Christy Minstrels"), it was with "The First Edition" that I first became aware of and familiar with his unique voice.



But as famed and respected as Kenny Rogers is, this band made its own special dent in the music scene of the late sixties and early seventies and made a place for itself in American popular music history.



This cd collection, "Anthology" reprints some of their best tracks. "Just Dropped In To See What Condition My Condition Was In" is my all time favorite recroding by "The First Edition" . . . perhaps the most heavy and rockin' song they recorded, equalled perhaps by, "Something's Burning"



A little to the country-rock style is "But You Know I Love You" written by Mike Settle (who I recall from watching "Hootenanny" back in 1964). "Reuben James" and "Ruby, Don't Take Your Love To Town"



Even some social commentary and advice in "Tell It All Brother".



This was a most enjoyable group of talented artists. This album spans the the group's recording history, including the transition from the tenure of female vocalist Thelma Commacho to Mary Arnold (later to become Mrs. Roger Miller of "doo wacka doo wacka doo fame! ha!).



I am so happy that this "Anthology" collection of some of their best recordings has been released. It doesn't merely bring back old nostalgic memories of listening to this music "way back when" . . . but the music and performances still stand on their own today . . .and these tracks have all been "digitally remastered" for even better sound reproduction.



A small "liner note" booklet with an interesting history of "The First Edition" and its members is included . . .which also contains some nice photo's of the group. (Mary "Arnold" MIller was a knock-out! . . . one can see why the late Roger Miller fell head-over-heels for her!)



I thank all involved: Thelma Commacho, Mary Arnold, Mike Settle, Terry Williams, drummer Mickey Jones and Kenny Rogers -- The First Edition! . . . and THE BEST EDITION! :)



You've provided me . . . and countless many more with great musical entertainment . . . and it's lasted through all these years!



"