“Marty Robbins’ Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs” is a 1959 concept album that tells the story of the American West through a collection of folk and country songs. The album features Robbins’ smooth voice and skilled guitar playing, along with top-notch arrangements and production. Here’s a track listing for the album, along with a brief review of some notable tracks:
“Big Iron” – The opening track and perhaps the most famous song on the album, “Big Iron” tells the story of a showdown between a Texas Ranger and an outlaw. Robbins’ storytelling and guitar playing are both excellent on this track.
“Cool Water” – A haunting ballad about a group of cowboys searching for water in the desert, “Cool Water” features Robbins’ vocals and guitar work, as well as some beautiful harmonies.
“Billy the Kid” – This song tells the story of the notorious outlaw, with Robbins’ voice capturing the darkness and danger of the tale.
“A Hundred and Sixty Acres” – A slower, more contemplative track about a man working on his farm, this song showcases Robbins’ skill as a storyteller and his ability to convey deep emotions through his vocals.
“They’re Hanging Me Tonight” – Another dark tale, this song is about a man facing execution for a crime he didn’t commit. Robbins’ vocals are powerful and emotive, capturing the despair and resignation of the doomed man.
“The Strawberry Roan” – A classic cowboy ballad about a beloved horse, “The Strawberry Roan” features Robbins’ guitar work and vocals, as well as some great harmonies.
“El Paso” – Perhaps the most epic song on the album, “El Paso” tells the story of a cowboy’s love for a woman in the town of El Paso, and the violent consequences that follow. Robbins’ storytelling and guitar playing are both superb on this track.
“In the Valley” – A slower, more melancholy track about a man mourning the loss of his lover, “In the Valley” features some beautiful vocal harmonies and a mournful guitar solo.
“The Master’s Call” – A religious-themed song about a man heeding the call of God, “The Master’s Call” showcases Robbins’ ability to convey deep emotion through his vocals and guitar work.
“Running Gun” – The final track on the album, “Running Gun” is an upbeat, driving song about a man on the run from the law. Robbins’ vocals and guitar playing are both excellent, bringing the album to a thrilling conclusion.
Overall, “Marty Robbins’ Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs” is a classic album of cowboy and western music, featuring Robbins’ superb voice and guitar playing, as well as some great storytelling and production. This album remains a timeless classic and a must-listen for any fan of country or folk music.
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