Search - Michael Martin Murphey :: Wildfire (1972-1984)

Excellent selection of MMM's early music.

ghopkp@lake.ollusa.edu | Texas, Is there anywhere else? | 07/21/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a very enjoyable selection of MMM's early recordings, several of which are hard to come by these days. The selections move at a quick pace and sample the beautiful melodies, the damn-why-couldn't-I-have-said-that lyrics, and the "edge" that became Mike's signature. Who else can make you smile, tap your toe, scratch your head, cheer for the underdog, flee from the status quo, feel more kindly about your fellow man, and reflect on things metaphysical using cowboy metaphors? My only beef is the liner notes which refer to Mike's third album as "lackluster". I guess I'm one of the lucky few who bought it back in "73. I bet the Aussies who put this collection together couldn't get there hands on it - so to cover their tracks they call it lackluster. No offense boys. I still love and treasure that album. Too bad a few selections from it were not included. So,if you've only known Mike in his current incarnation as premier chronicler of the old west, do yourself a favor and get to know him as the Cosmic Cowboy of his youth. That man can sure write a tune and turn a phrase."

Some Essential Tracks Here

Mark K. Mcdonough | Reston, VA USA | 05/17/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Add me to the list of those who would like more early stuff on this (and if I never hear "Wildfire" again it will be too soon), but I can appreciate the dilemma faced by the label -- most of Murphey's fan base probably is totally unaware of his earlier work, and either knows him for the more recent western material or his success as a Top-40 balladeer in the late 70s and early 80s. Personally, I'd pay the entire price of the album just to hear "Alleys of Austin" again. Yup, there's more good early stuff out there, but they made some fine choices."