Customer Reviews

I Don't Know Where I'm Going but I'm On My Way

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

As a huge fan of the Old 97s, I hoped I would like Murrys' new album "I Don't Know Where I'm Going But I'm On My Way". I had no idea I was going to love it. After reading some of the reviews, I was expecting more of a gospel album, but labeling his newest release would be unfair to someone considering purchasing this album. In a nutshell, its a collection of gorgeous songs, touching lyrics and beautiful melodies. You could call it spirtual or old timey or americana, but you still would not nail what this album is. The best way I can describe it is, "an incredible gathering of beautiful music". Its evident that Murry was feeling loss (his parents) and joy (the birth of his son) and basking in a love affair with his wife, because this album pure and simple evokes emotion. If the songs on this album don't make you feel something in that vast range of human experience, then you need to go looking for your soul cause you left it or lost it somewhere along the way. You don't have to be a fan of a certain band or genre of music to love this collection of lyrical and musical gifts that Hammond has offered, just ears. I can't quit listening to it and I don't plan on trying not to. You owe it to yourself to add this to your library. Thanks Murry! I would have paid ten times what you charged for it.

I first saw Murry perform many of the songs on this album at Largo a few months ago, opening for his pal and band mate, Rhett Miller. As great as Rhett is, I felt sorry for anybody who had to follow Murry that night. Murry silenced the room, not with boredom or indifference. Rather, we were stunned - punch drunk. The smooth, sweet sounds that Murry intertwined surely made everyone in the room feel there was no better place on the planet to be. It may be the finest musical experience I have ever had, and I have head plenty.

I have had this album for about 12 hours and it has not stopped playing. I plan to leave it on for days. If you like good music, if you like originality, if you like knowing there are still great Americans, buy this album.

As a long time fan of Old 97's I was tickled to hear that Murry had put out his first solo CD. I Don't Know Where I'm Going But I'm on My Way is a powerful collection that showcases Murry's unique voice with an eclectic array of song choices; from old railroad songs to gospel. The instrumentals are never too intrusive the powerful and haunting voice and the story are the focus. At times I was reminded of the storytelling talents of Johnny Cash or Jerry Jeff Walker (albeit without JJW's sardonic bent). I popped this CD in the day it arrived in the mail and played it on a drive to Salt Lake. I was so caught up in the music; I parked and stayed in the car so I could listen to the end. This has been in constant rotation since that day. An outstanding solo debut.

Wow, move over Kris, Johnny and Willie this is one powerful piece of storytelling.I heard it at the Granada and was blown away, nice to have it in my truck to listen to. First class c.d. cover too. Keep up the good work!

Featuring Murry Hammond of Old 97's (Drag It Up, Hitchhike To Rhome) on acoustic guitar and bass; harmonium; banjo; and vocals; the country/folk/gospel standards and train-themed Hammond originals on this spare, gorgeous disc create a cohesive quality concept album comparable to Willie Nelson's Red Headed Stranger. Written in-between burying his parents, marrying his girl, and becoming a father, Hammond's reflections on love, loss, and faith were perfected during his Wednesday night residency as worship leader at Burbank Christian Church. Though it's filled with tales of Hammond's native Texas, the songs and sounds evoke artists as varied as Nick Drake (Pink Moon) and John Hartford (O Brother Where Art Thou).

One of my husband's favorite singers.... this CD is as good as his other stuff. Played very often in our home!

This one is a little tough to find, I think its out of production. If you can find it, I would highly suggest it. It was worth the $30 I paid for it. Murry's voice and vocal style are perfect for these songs. It has a very mellow, traditional, subtle, soothing feel to it. It's pure Americana. Don't expect rocking style of Old 97's. Songs about being restless, regret, sadness, travel, a lot of religious content (I'm not religious and I love this album) I have a large and diverse music collection and this is one of my favorite albums. It slowly grows on you and I can listen to it over and over. Its beautifully done. Great selection of songs.

I'm another Old 97's fan, and have seen/heard Mr.Hammond with them live and also have been privileged to hear him in a small venue as a solo act.

This album - while not a substitute for his live performances, of course - is a beautiful solo accomplishment.

The '97's are by no means lightweights, but the gravitas and beauty of this music is still a very pleasant surprise. As others have noted, it is both lyrically and musically the product of a mature ("middle aged") artist, but brought tears to the eyes of our early 20's daughter more than once on first hearing.

Buy it.