Coolmixes

Big Beat continues its acclaimed retrospective appraisal (Clarence White, Gosdin Brothers et al) of vintage country rock with a fabulous and definitive primer, proving there was life long before the Eagles. "Country & West Coast" showcases the artists and records that are equally cherished by both long time country rock fanciers and the hipster alt.country crowd, and is designed with a fresh and passionate perspective upon this oft-maligned genre.

For the first time, the emergence and flowering of country rock in the late 1960s and early 1970s is chronicled in a listenable collection that features defining moments from the genre’s big guns, including the Byrds, Flying Burrito Brothers, Gram Parsons, Michael Nesmith, Gene Clark and Poco. By its very title, "Country & West Coast" is heavily California-centric, but other key players, such as Ian & Sylvia, Jerry Jeff Walker, Pure Prairie League and the Lovin’ Spoonful are featured, providing an expansive and objective overview of the development of country rock.

"Country & West Coast" also shines light on previously neglected but no less worthy examples of the late 60s country rock renaissance, such as Guilbeau & Parsons, the Gosdin Brothers (with an unissued cut) and Johnny Darrell. Darrell was one of the first country acts to look beyond Nashville, via his early cover of Lowell George’s ‘Willin’’. The CD also features hard-to-find gems by the Corvettes (Linda Ronstadt’s backing band) and the Spencers, rarities that will excite even the most jaded of aficionados.

In customary Ace style, the package boasts top-notch sound and an informative, well-illustrated booklet that carefully documents the incestuous LA country-rock fraternity, via fresh interviews with many of its participants. Putting aside historical concerns however, "Country & West Coast" is sequenced for maximum impact and makes a great soundtrack for both inquisitive Mojo-reading enthusiast and the mainstream high street-shopping Eagles fan.

18.98