Customer Reviews

Sittin in the Balcony

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This 23-selection CD is a thoroughly outstanding compliation showcasing this prolific songwriter's early work. Upon listening to the selections, it is difficult to understand why Mr. Loudermilk wasn't hugely popular as a singer in the late 50's. The arrangements of these songs are typical to the rock 'n roll (rock-a-billy?)genre of that time. The vocal back-up to Mr. Loudermilk's lead singing is excellent with real tight harmonies. The instrumental accompaniment to his accomplished guitar work is likewise top-rate. The first nineteen selections are a nostalgic trip down memory lane for those of us who were around in the late 50's. Althought not all the selections were familiar to me, they typify popular music of that period and are thoroughly enjoyable. However, Mr. Loudermilk's rendition of "The Red Headed Stranger" is far superior to Willie Nelson's in my opinion and is the highlight of the album. Likewise his cover of "Tobacco Road," which he also wrote, is just as fine. The last two selections, "The Happy Wanderer" and "March of the Minute Men" are funky and fun. All in all, this is an enjoyable album which I strongly recommend.

This is a selection of John's early commercial successes and as such a good example of the bubble-gum pop genre. However as a collection of JDL material it is not as good as the other CDs in this series in my opinion. Collectors only I fear, but for them(including me!) it is great just to have this stuff available on CD after all these years.

Typical Bear Family product - well mastered, great liner notes & photos. Combined with the great talents of the subject this is well worth the money.