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On May 9, 2006,
an amazing collection of Americana artists released a collection
of songs in tribute to Randy Newman. The CD - entitled Sail
Away: The Songs of Randy Newman - focuses on Newman's
recordings from the 1970s. Since this collection was assembled
by Sugar Hill Records, it is probably not surprising that some
of the label's top artists make contributions to the recording -
including Sam Bush, Tim O'Brien, Allison Moorer and Sonny
Landreth.
The CD opens with
several of the stronger tracks on the release. Though "Sail
Away" has been recorded by many artists over the years,
Tim O'Brien offers one of the most compelling readings of the
song since Newman's original version. The Del McCoury Band gives
"Birmingham" the full bluegrass
treatment. Reckless Kelly and Joe Ely provide another
highlight with a cover of "Rider in the Rain,"
which represents one of Newman's strongest embraces of country
music.
This is a
"must have" for Randy Newman fans who love Americana
music. Even if you are not a fan of Randy Newman, this CD is
worth checking out simply due to the wonderful collection of
Americana talent assembled.
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