Good Rockin' Tonight: The Legacy of Sun Records

by

Various Artists

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"Good Rockin' Tonight" is an excellent tribute to Sun Records, marred by a few clunkers. Paul McCartney turns in an upbeat, inspired performance of "That's All Right, Mama," including more lyrics than Elvis did in his version. Elton John passionately pounds the piano and does his best Jerry Lee Lewis style vocal on "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On." It's Elton's rockingest performance in years and my favorite track. Bob Dylan performs the obscure Warren Smith tune "Red Cadillac And A Black Moustache" in his unique style and remakes it into a Dylan classic. Like a fine wine, Dylan gets better with age. Bryan Ferry turns in a polished performance of "Don't Be Cruel". It wasn't a hit for Elvis until his RCA years, but Jerry Lee Lewis recorded a version of the song while he was at Sun records. Sheryl Crow does a bluesy version of the Charlie Rich classic "Who Will The Next Fool Be?", while Matchbox 20 rocks the house with a lively version of Mr. Rich's "Lonely Weekend." "It Wouldn't Be The Same Without You" is an obscure track that appeared on the Elvis "Sunrise" compilation. Chris Isaak sounds so much like a young Elvis that his version of the song could be mistaken for an outtake from "Sunrise." On the other hand, Live turn in an off-key performance of "I Walk The Line" which can't compare to the original Johnny Cash classic. The Howling Diablos and Kid Rock should be arrested for murdering the song "Drinkin' Wine Spo-Dee-O-Dee." They single-handedly prevented me from giving "Good Rockin' Tonight" a five star rating.

A tribute to Sun Records and not a cut from the Killer?? Jerry Lee Lewis lives right down the road from Sun Studio,so why was he excluded from a "tribute" to his old stable? For all who may not know,he still ROCKS,and does so with alot of gusto!! I did enjoy the Dylan cut,as well as McCartney,ChrissieHynde,Van and Carl,Kid Rock,Cheryl,and the rest,many of these tunes have been covered before,and were hits, many by the guy who was snubbed,Mr. Lewis! So what gives?? If the listener isn"t aware of Sam Phillips,the big "E",Carl,Killer,Cash,Warren Smith,Howlin Wolk ,Rufus Thomas and all the rest,then this will help open a door to some reat roots music for them,I found it refreshing overall.