Customer Reviews

Burton Cummings

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
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Despite his fears of not being able to succeed without the Guess Who, Burton Cummings released his first solo album in the fall of 1976. Fuelled by the Billboard top-ten single "Stand Tall" Burton Cummings' self-titled debut album did much to allay his fears and firmly established his place in the music business. Featuring excellent original material and well chosen covers, this album is both cohesive as well as an accurate representation of his many influences. From the straight ahead rock and roll of Your Backyard to the laid back, 4 in the morning flavour of Blossom (one of the bonus cuts) and You Ain't Seen Nothin' Yet (yes, a lounge version of the BTO chestnut!), Cummings covers all bases without spreading himself too thin. The highlight of the album is Cummings' original Is It Really Right (interestingly, the working title for the album before the 'suits' at CBS nixed the idea), a song comprised of many elements, with lyrics to match. A great introduction to Cummings and an equally great transition from the Guess Who to his solo career.

Being a fan of the Guess Who, I knew that Burton Cummings would go out on his own with a great debut album. And he did not fail to show why he was the driving force behind the Guess Who. He shows that he can do it all, from romantic ballads to hard rock 'n roll. I invite anyone to listen and enjoy !

I ordered this after hearing it at a friends house about 8 years ago. I loved the clarity of it then and the different styles of music done with such a strong and addictive beat....I couldn't believe that Burton Cummings could still have such a voice. Then I finally decided to buy it for my own collection, I couldn't believe the low price for it and thought it must be some poor copy. It arrived fast and it's the real thing. Couldn't be more pleased with my purchase.

My first introduction to Burton Cummings was of course while he was with the Guess Who. When I bought my first Guess Who Album in 1973, "Rockin" I was hooked. I then went on to purchare, "10", "Road Food", "So Long Banatyne", "Artificial Paradise", "Wheatfield Soul", "American Woman", "Flavours", and "Power In The Music". After 35 years now I still enjoy sitting down and pulling those disc's out to listen to. I was really shaken up after the Guess Who broke. Would Cumming's continue his career? Would the Guess get back together? Or, would all just end in a silent wimper? Thankfully, Cummings decided to push on. After I had received my newly remastered version of Stand Tall I was somewhat apprehensive that it might not sound that good. Rest assured that after the first song ended all my fears were put to rest. Not only did the disc have a great sound I had truly forgotten what an excellent release this was.

Yes, there are some artist today that I can truly sit down and listen completely through without having to get up or grow restless with but they are few and far in-between. "Stand Tall" is one disc I can sit down and actually listen to and anxiously await the next tune, even though I already know what is coming. When an album (or CD) can do that you then know for sure you have something really special. "Stand Tall" is just as the title states.....it certainly does stand tall.

Cummings first solo album since departure from The Guess Who is remarkable. Here he lets his unique piano-singing style shine through, unhindered by his former band. "Stand Tall" was a huge surprise hit for him, showing his blue-eyed soul, and "I'm Scared" is as heartfelt as yearnful tunes can get.

The rest of the album is filled with fast-paced rock 'n roll originals with some fancy keyboards and great guitar work. "You Ain't Seen Nothin' Yet" is a slow version of the Bachman tune with the clever stutter turned into a hungry ballad.

The two demo's of "Blossom" and "I'm Scared" are excellent examples of Cummings raw talent and enough reason alone to purchase this set.

A great number of talented Canadians are out there, but Cummings was one of the first.