Big Country Albums (22)
'From The Front Row...Live!'
Release Date 5/20/2003
Tracks 14
Label Silverline
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What The Critics Say
When Big Country released their final studio album, Driving to Damascus, in 1999, it never received the proper distribution it deserved (except in Europe). In 2002, Big Country bassist Tony Butler took the tapes back into the studio, remastered the entire album with a few new edits, and added four bonus tracks in the process. This release, re-titled John Wayne's Dream, is the outcome of Butler's hard work, and it is a pure delight for Big Country fans, and rock and roll fans in general. The original Driving to Damascus album was, perhaps, Big Country's most consistent release in over a decade and this repackage makes it shine even brighter. Though it may seem like a cash-in on the suicide of leader/vocalist/guitarist Stuart Adamson, it is nothing of the sort. It is actually a tribute to his voice, his songwriting, and his overall presence Although Adamson was the most recognizable member of the band, Big Country always worked best with the four original members, all of whom are present and accounted for (Adamson, Butler, guitarist Bruce Watson, and drummer Mark Brzezicki). Tracks like "Driving To Damascus," "John Wayne's Dream," "Dive Into Me," "Bella," and "See You" are all instant Big Country classics, weaving a late-'90s sound into the tightly structured Big Country musical tapestry. The playing is tight, the production is meaty, and the songs are top-notch. You may have missed this album the first time around, so don't make the same mistake twice. ~ Stephen SPAZ Schnee, All Music Guide
'Why the Long Face'
Release Date 3/20/2000
Tracks 14
Label Essential!
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'Big Country: The Nashville Album'
Release Date 1/1/2000
Tracks 6
Label Track
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What The Critics Say
Big Country, also known as The Nashville Album, is a CD was offered initially through the Track Records website. As it is subtitled, this CD was recorded in Nashville and features four tracks from their 1999 release, Driving to Damascus, as well as two classic Big Country songs. Although the liner notes lead one to believe that the group is heavily influenced by the classic Nashville sound, it is not evidenced on this release. That is not to say that this is a bad thing. Actually, this is a vibrant, raw recording with minimal overdubs. Their version of "Chance" (from The Crossing) actually betters the original version. Slowed down, and much more bluesy, it is a true work of art. Adamson's vocals have never sounded better. The CD has a "live" sound, and the four tracks from Driving to Damascas have a rawer and edgier tone. Quite a good CD, albeit far too short. ~ Aaron Badgley, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
Big Country's 1995 album, Why the Long Face, was a very tough act to follow. But they succeeded brilliantly with their first full-length studio album, Driving to Damascus. This is one of their finest moments, full of trademark Big Country sounds (the guitar, the heavy beat, and Adamson's fantastic vocals). What sets this CD apart from their other releases is the strong use of melody tied together with heartbreaking stories and well-constructed arrangements. Listening to the harmony vocals melt with the guitars in "Fragile Thing," it's difficult not to be moved. Adamson has never sounded better, and the band is tighter than ever before. Hearing this album, it is hard to believe that the band was celebrating their 20-year anniversary and still sounding so fresh and excited. This is a group who have not mellowed out, but are able to structure melodic, driving songs. There are a couple of interesting points with this album. First, Ray Davies (of the Kinks) co-wrote two songs with Adamson (the brilliant "Somebody Else," and the wonderful "Devil in the Eye"). To hear these, one would never guess that there was any involvement from Davies. The songs fit for Big Country, but would be out of place on a Davies' or Kinks' album. Also, the CD appears on the Track Records label (famous for Hendrix and the Who, to name two). It seems fitting that Big Country is signed to the resurrected label -- it just fits. It is the mixture of old and new that helps Big Country form their own distinct (and brilliant) sound. This CD is highly recommended. ~ Aaron Badgley, All Music Guide
