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American III: Solitary Man

Artist: Johnny Cash
Genre: Country / Pop
Year: 2000
Rating: 8 / 10

When exactly was it that Johnny Cash became so trendy? Or is it that he just never went out of style (kind of like the black clothes that are his trademark)? Anyway, the legendary Man in Black is finally back with a long-awaited album, and the one country music performer who it's cool to enjoy does not disappoint. Certainly, the years (and recent illnesses) have taken a toll on Cash and his voice, but this only enhances Cash's raspy, rugged vocal style. The result is a sound that is as raw as the emotion conveyed by the lyrics and simple melodies.

American III: Solitary Man contains a mixture of old traditional songs, pop classics, and a couple of originals. Cash's version of Tom Petty's "I Won't Back Down" is solid, but it is his soulful rendition of U2's "One" which is the highlight of the album for me. Equally as impressive is Cash's mournful rendition of David Allen Coe's country classic "Would You Lay With Me (In a Field of Stone)."

The newer covers are welcomed by Cash's younger generation of fans (such as myself), as are the cameos by Tom Petty and Sheryl Crow. The MVP of the guest stars, however, is Merle Haggard. His duet with Cash on "I'm Leaving Now" proves that the two living legends are still every bit as relevant today as they were decades ago. Old Cash fans thirsty for a new recording will not be disappointed by Solitary Man, while the album's numerous covers and guest vocalists make the record perfect for new listeners curious about this member of both the Rock and Roll and Country Music Halls of Fame.

Submitted 11/2/00 by Cleveland lawyer Brad Sobolewski.

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