ReviewI first came across this album via the free tape that was given with NME back in 1987. At the time my musical taste was expanding but had yet to understand the attraction of country music and Americana however this selection of "New Country" soon found itself being on constant play that year. Over the years the tape was hidden away but often was dug out and played and always enjoyed, so imagine my joy at finding this a few years ago at a boot sale for I think £1!
The album gives a selection of what then was the rising stars of country with a few "oldies" chucked in for good measure. Dwight Yoakam giving it all he's got, the harmony of Sweethearts Of The Rodeo, Randy Travis on the way to fame and fortune and the late great Johnny Cash telling a great story of Hank Williams.
You may not be a country fan but this album is good in that it gives you a selection of what was the best around 1987, some have gone on to be huge, some never hit the level many thought they would and some have died along the way but NME got it right when the said this album was farewell to Nash-Trash and hello to the new Hard Core of Country.
The chances are you will not find this album (only 750 pressed) but look out for the tape as they turn up quite often.