Early Tracks

by

Steve Earle

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This collection of songs is straight-ahead rockabilly. Taken as that, and not a comparison point for later Steve Earle, it's an excellent assortment of contemporary rockabilly tunes. Every song is not a classic, but, after hearing the vinyl album over 20 years ago, I can still mentally hear a fair number of the songs because they were that refreshing, distinctive, and enjoyable. I really liked the guitar playing and the pre-Dire Straits not-overly-processed Strat sound. The version of Devil's Right Hand on this recording is superior to any version that followed. Oddly, Steve Earle's southern accent is LESS evident here than on more recent recordings where his twang is almost annoying. Maybe he took diction lessons from Gillian Welch after this album, I don't know. Anyway, if you listen to it for what it is- rockabilly- it's a very enjoyable collection of songs.

This disk has it's moments. If you look at it from the right perspective. Here's a young Earle finding his place and doing so with some mighty big shadows close by. Townes Van Zandt and Guy Clark we're mentors and friends at this point of his career. And if you listen you can hear their influence. But you also have to know that here's a great voice being muted by the Nashville music machine at the same time.

Personally My Baby Worships Me, Open Up Your Door and Breakdown Lane show some great style and potiental. As well there is some amazing humor stuck in there too. If you are a fan give it a listen. Just don't expect it to be I Feel Alright!!!