Reviews (page 11 of 14)
Solid album, liked pretty much every song. Nothing felt amazing, but good vocals and guitar. 4/5
I've listened to Marty Robbins a few times and enjoy the old school country vibes immensly. Way to go Marty. 4/5
Nope…
I really like this album!
Crazy how Marty was able to make the perfect RDR2 soundtrack 60 years before it came out
Standouts: All Lyrics/Vocals- 5/5 Instrumentals- 5/5 Vibes- 5/5 Overall- 5/5 I fucking love this album. It's a classic and a must listen.
So commercial it stings, but at the same time, great bops. I'd have never listened to this, and I'll likely never listen to it again, but it just feels like this pristine time capsule. Perfect production, clear lyrics and nice narrative style. I'll bet the kids freakin loved this back in 1959.
Not really into country music. But this is better than modern pop country of course.
YES YES YES!!!! I OWN THIS ALBUM ON CD. ABSOLUTE BANGERS. Fallout New Vegas much?
I can't give something so simple a high rating. As previously stated I'm not a big country guy but this is ok. Another good background album El Paso is the standout.
Overall -apparently this is culturally significant and in the library of congress -this is not for me -I mean is good poetry but I could fall asleep -it all sounds the same to me. I mean the guitar melody’s are pretty but this is hard to get through
If there was such a thing as emo cowboys this would be THEIR guy. He's such a sad boy- I think that's what people must like about him because it definitely can't be the music. I got excited with the first song Big Iron that I might have pre-judged this album- time makes fools of us all. The Valley, The Little Green Valley, it all sounds the same. This album really dragged for me.
I ADORE this album.
So old and innocent
I have not heard of this album or artist before but I was able to guess that it would be country. Though it surprised me since I didn’t find it too bad to listen to. I even recognized Big Iron from somewhere. I think I’d listen again even though it wouldn’t be my first choice. Just classic sing a long songs to have a good time.
Didn't think I'd enjoy this that much, but it was kinda fun
Recipe for Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs: Ingredients: 1 Elvis Presley's voice 1 cowboy's hat Big cup of yee-haw Preparation: Go to the wild, wild west and mix every ingredient. Ready!
This album was just plain boring. Simple guitar strums with stories put to simple melodies. I wish I knew what made this an album that I needed to listen to.
A western classic brought into the present through Fallout New Vegas. A time capsule for the olden days on the prairie.
BIG IRON HIS HIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIP
Great songs like El Paso & the rousing They’re Gonna Hang Me Tomorrow!
Take me to a stoked whiskey barrel fire with burbling water in the background and at least a half full jug of Rossi. And a Swisher Sweet.
For the best experience I recommend pairing this album with a gunpowder whiskey.
5 stars if i was a wyte cowboy
Needs more cowbell.
Not my cup of tea. 1/5
A fun time of recalling the songs that my parents enjoyed. Americana personified.
Hard to separate the music from the feeling I got playing Fallout: New Vegas. Definitely transports you to dusty gunslinger days.
Absolutely awful.
I have forgotten about a lot of artists I liked in my youth. It's good to revisit them.
Such a perfect album to transport you to a different time and place. Made me smile and sway… can’t ask for more. Really discovering my love for old school country!
The Good: Dude was a NASCAR driver! Music has a distinctive Western flair. Unapologetically narrative songwriting ... The Bad: ...almost to a fault. A cool anthology of short stories, but doesn't really land in the medium. Instrumentation wears out its welcome. I won't mind hearing these on their own once in a while, but together they're repetitive as hell. The Ugly: His political views 😬 Favorite track: In The Valley
Awesome stuff. Great voice and harmonies. Great guitars.
Cool klassisk cowboymusik. Känner igen en del från film. Inte alls min grej att lyssna på.
3.4 - it was nice, but quite samey
Confusing that there are two tracks called El Paso. Quite enjoyed this, mostly just as background music. Fave Tracks: Big Iron, The Hanging Tree 3.3/5
Fantastic. I thought it was corny at first, but then it really sucked me in. Love the vibe, and El Paso is a great song
That's not my taste in musik. But ok
https://youtu.be/hajfdGmtZI4?si=V6HohcK_C0y1N5Xt
No es mucho mi rollo, pero me ha gustado. Si algún dia me da por ponerme a pegar tiros por el desierto y salvar doncellas en apuros, me pondré este album de fondo.
Old school but kinda fun
4 stars
Myskönntry! 3:a
I had no idea what to expect with this and liked it more than I thought I would. Some very catchy tunes!
This seems like an album my parents might have owned, even though they weren’t country fans at all. This seems more balladeer-ish, so they might have liked it — Perry Como with a twangy guitar. I quite like his voice but too many of the songs sound the same to me.
I think I’m resonating with the gunfighter ballads. Not so much the trail songs. But this is better than I expected. Highlights: Big Iron, They’re Hanging Me Tonight
💖 big iron 🗣️ 7️⃣
What on earth? This wasn't supposed to be good! I'm not sure many of the later tracks live up to Big Iron's thundering opener, but this album is surprisingly enjoyable! The lyrics are great, each song having a proper narrative to it.
amazing
This may be the actual most essential album that’s been suggested so far. Both emblematic of its time and timeless in its simple songs of love and loss, this is fantastic. I’ll miss this kind of humanity driven music when A.I takes over the industry.
Songs right out of the valley, where the sun goes down and a lonesome cowboy rides on his horse into the sunset.
Fun to listen to, very nostalgic.
iconic voice
My dad was a huge Country & Western fan so I grew up listening to Marty Robbins. This album promises gunfighter ballads and trail songs and that's exactly what it delivers. This is proper cowboy music, light on the corniness and delivered with a beautiful voice. I found myself cranking it up so I could hear the stories. I'm not a country fan but have developed an appreciation for this old school stuff. Mary Robbins is a cowboy poet.
If you’re into country, old western movies, or some older style of music. This is your album. I happen to be a fan of OG country and can handle some twang. Every story is like a old school western come to life through song.
Not into Country but could appreciate the quality.
It serves as a testament on what people was living in a very specific setting of living. Not my cup of tea but very rich in culture and poertry.
For an album thats main theme is an old western movie—this album was surprisingly timeless. Partly because of how well done the production is, and party because I was surprised to find that Cool Water wasn’t originally sung by Buster Scruggs (I should have known Delmar wasn’t completely original). I enjoy concept albums even if they are from a genre I don’t frequent, so I do enjoy the pure storytelling from Marty in this one, but I’m not sure if it will be in the top of my favorites. Maybe more time will tell.
Cowboy gansta. You wouldn’t know it by his voice, which is pretty solid, but that is one bad dude. Pretty great storytelling and actually catchy.
10 year old me loved Big Iron, Cool Water, and El Paso. In the 90's El Paso was my go to on karaoke night. I still love the smooth vocals and the white hat cowboy lyrics.
Nice voice.
Album 297 of 1001 Marty Robbins - Gunfighter Ballads And Trail Songs Rating : 4 / 5 Perfect representation of its genre. It was selected for preservation in the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress as being "culturally, historically, or artistically significant." That is something, I guess. Certainly a snapshot of a time gone by. Fun listen. It has "El Paso". Gets a bit repetitive.
Really liked some of these
How does this exist. Some of the noodling going on during Big Iron grabbed me right away. What!? The singer of this became a NASCAR driver?! People used to do all sorts of things. Man he was a bad driver. This is great music. Not all hits the same but he can sing and the vibe is strong. I wanted to love every inch of this. The Master's Call helps me realize how much I like a story in a song.
Sun's come'n up. Round em up n ride.
Patrolling the Mojave almost makes you wish for a nuclear winter.
Great period piece but not one I’d listen to at length.
This is the perfect western album!
Probably the definitive Western Country album. Great Melodies from start to end. If I had to choose standouts I'd go with They're Hanging Me Tonight, Utah Carol, The Master's Call, and of course Big Iron and El Paso.
Really dull. Nothing else much to say other than that. It is just a long ass cowboy album with nothing truly that substantial to enjoy in the whole play time.
Great stories with good tunes.
Energetic and hearfelt renditions of old americana music. Its almost impossible to not appreciate it, even if its not your preferred genre. The instrumentation is soft and poetic, all whilst being captivating. Love this one. Bonus points for fallout music.
BIG IIIIIRROONNN BIG IROOONNNNNN
I was struck by the sound of this. It isn't experimental, or artistically bold, but had a lasting impact on me. This galloping, western-influened, country is like nothing else on here. This reminds me; wasn't I sold on this experience being a bunch of iconic, unique and vital albums? It shouldn't be difficult to find a list of 1001 albums that at least have identity and purpose, and I'm disappointed that editing biases have led to an overinclusion of bland (mainly psychedelic) rock, which is generally very inconsequential. Going for a 4 on this, though that may be partly due to the choice of inclusion than the actual album.
Really fun country album about people dying in the Wild West. I guess its themes are what is making that one so popular because musically it's also really good but rather on the smooth side for an outlaw country album.
The cover looks like it came out of a PS1 cowboys game. 10/10
Epic title, epic cover art, epic music. It's amongst my favorite country/western albums ever. Each song feels like a movie, with a beautiful melancholic, bittersweet and mellow vibe.
Nostalgic, but not my thing.
I love this! My grandparents used to listen to this fella when I was younger, and I didn't know who it was. So many memories.
My Grandpa and Uncle both own this record. El Paso is a favorite of mine. I'm a sucker for storytelling especially the occasional murder ballad.
What a find. This feels like the good angel to Johnny Cash’s bad angel (who is one of only a handful of country artists I would have said I really liked before starting this project). Marty is on the list! Can’t wait to listen to more of his stuff.
First heard of Marty Robbins from a Rick Beato video, so familiar of this album. Great voice, sneakily good guitar, beautiful harmonies. Very fun cowboy western music. ‘Cool Water’ was fun to hear as I remember it from the “Buster Scruggs” movie. Favorites are ‘Big Iron’ (love the harmonized octave slurs) and ‘El Paso’.
A few keeper a few misses
Perfecto si tienes un caballo
Naja, wem's gefällt ... Mir nicht! Vote 2
Mart robbins man what a story teller. This is old school country at its best. Simple rhythms catchy tunes and great lyrics. Marty has a great voice for singing while informing the listener. Thanks to breaking bad, El Paso got many listens. All in all it’s very solid good country. 7.0/10
This was such a fun album. I would totally listen to this again.
this was more fun than i expected to have. could i write poetry to this? n
Some really great songs on here, though I feel like it sagged in the middle a little bit. Probably more like a 3.5.
I was afraid each song was going to sound exactly the same, but that's definitely not the case. Fun listen!
Fine
Fallout New Vegas
I never saw myself listening to an album like this, nor did I see myself liking an album like this. 😂👍👍
Country balades are fine, I can heard a couple of them, but not a full album
It was fine. El Paso played twice. I guess one is a radio edit. I love his voice, but had a hard time caring about it 44 minutes straight
Tremendos vibes. Igual no siempre apetece el rollo western/fallout, pero esto te transporta instantaneamente a ese paisaje.
Truly a great album. I was transported to the old west. Marty's command and storytelling of his voice is unmatched. 5/5 album that I will come back to often when I am in the mood for a western.
Old timey tunes which was fun. The story-telling of the songs was fun too. Awesome to hear the original versions of El Paso which I’ve know for decades as covered by the Grateful Dead. But not something I’d go back and listen to again.
Easy country listening.
Pleasant surprise. Heard the name before, recognized a couple songs.
Easy listening country music.
I was really anticipating that I wouldn't enjoy this album at all, but I was pleasantly surprised with how catchy most of the songs are. I've never heard of Marty Robbins before and I was very impressed with his vocals...great singer. He tells great stories too (which is impressive because I'm not the biggest lyrics guy). The backing vocals and harmonies were delightful too! AND I finally know where a song that my Pap would sing when I was younger comes from - the great El Paso. My favorite songs: Big Iron, A Hundred And Sixty Acres, El Paso, The Master's Call.
Old El Paso
Recorded in one eight hour session, this is an impressive range of storytelling songs, backed by some incredible vocal harmonies. It’s an idealistic view of the Ol’ West with tales of cattle, land ownership (!) travelling, lonesomeness and love backed by acoustic and Spanish infused guitars. It does recall an idealistic view of the time which does seem less than authentic when now know the USA to be a murderous entity ala Jack Palance in the movie ‘Shane’ (props to Bill Hicks)
I loved this album. I think it's a masterclass in story telling. The music is pretty simple, but the lyrics are unreal. I felt completely engrained in each story told. It's wild how many people are shot and killed in these songs. It has to be over 70 bodies, just unreal. Songs about being hung for crimes are haunting in the best kind of way. I don't typically like country music, but the album is a gem. El Paso is wild. It's on the album twice, the full version is 19 seconds longer. If it was important enough to be on the album twice....why not just have the "full version" to begin with.
fora jer prica pricu, ali nije moj stil muzike pa meh
ugodno za poslusat, ali nije bas moj đir, mozda eventualno za radit da me ne distraktira puno.
Pogodite ko je ima najbolje usisavanje ikad?! Ovo je bilo top, nisan znala da volin muziku za vesterne haha… gangsterski ✨
Bilo mi je zabavno
A mogla bi čak i 4 dat ali ajde nije skroz moj đir pa kao, inače mi se stvarno jako svidio vibe, može country bit i jako lijep!
Der Anfang hörte sich nett an, leider war die Digitalisierung sehr schlecht. Deshalb habe ich das Album nicht angehört
Listening in on my father.
Really liked the music
Gets me in a specific mood. Can see how they inspired modern country and western music. Fav song They're hanging me tonight
First cowboy album but surprisingly good fun. Have heard most of them before. Marty had a good voice.
The style did not work for me.
this was a pleasant surprise! definitely some recognizable songs and can see how it has influenced some indie/folk music of today.
Classic country but good
OK, I liked about half the songs
Country from 1959 - unsure about this… it’s not terrible but country isn’t really my thing. Low 3.
What the fuck is this shit?
Made me feel like I was in a western. Great story telling 👏
Not my type of music at all but I can appreciate it for its time and it was easier on the ear than some I've listened to. I could imagine Elvis singing one or two of these tracks.
Erstaunlich gut
Probably good for its genre. Not into it.
One of, if not the most essential Western albums of all time. El Paso and Big Iron are still icons after 60 years, and hearing the full album made me certain of that. He's got the voice, he nails the emotion, and he recorded this album in EIGHT HOURS. Marty Robins and his backing band absolutely knew what they were going for, and captured a legend
Basically, everyone dies. Not a fan ha. Big iron was good though.
Nice country ballads
Tough listen. Got into it and wanted to shoot someone in el paso by the end
Liked this way more than I expected. The songs are simple and catchy, but not very unique.
Good country cowboy
The worst of country.
Although maybe not a daily listener, it is the peak of what it is. Need western/cowboy music? This is it. Great imagery and stories as well.
Je préfère Marlène Jobert.
pourrais je devenir fan de country?????
The storytelling and lyricism in this is absolutely great. I never thought I'd enjoy this album as much as I did; such a relaxing listen.
It's not bad, but it's uninteresting. It's Johnny Cash without the great voice. I think there's other old country music that belongs on the list more, like Chet Atkins or Jerry Reed, who didn’t make it. Favorite song: I don't really care. I lost interest after 2 songs. I did finish playing it, but it didn't register.
3.4 El Paso is a harder karaoke song than you would think
A perfect record. Originally got into it by a recommendation on a Mick Jones playlist and fell in love with ol’ Marty ever since.
This album and particularly Big Iron, changed my life. One of the first vinyl records I set out to get my hands on and what a game changer. Plus it’s one of the best fallout new Vegas songs so yea
Marty’s way is long gone, but it still sounds good to me. Something to be said for these old ballads
Definitely don’t make them like this anymore
Ok, best wat leuke nummers, maar wel veel van hetzelfde en niet echt mijn ding.
Not my taste…
I don't like country music.
Growing up in Northern Ireland, I think I am well-qualified to say that I despise country music. I had to listen to so much of that rubbish when I was younger, and I did not last three minutes into this. Not going to waste an hour I’ll never get back.
Country nope
fav song: the iron
Good country music
OH BITCH big iron- LETS GOOOOO. the stranger there among them had a big iron on his hip (big iron on his hiiiiiip) 7 or 8 off the bat a hundred and sixty acres- i can already imagine traveling in red dead to this so 7 theyre hanging me tonight- me too. i think a 6 but i think ill grow on it. you not rocking with me? cool water- um i can imagine a trailer to it. but um a 6. billy the kid- 7 i like the almost spanish sounding riffs? utah carol- 7. um i dont have a lot to say about these songs its literally just what it says, gunfighter ballads. i love em though the strawberry roan- 7 or 8. horsey the masters call- 7 or 8. god said hiiii running gun- 6 or 7. just kinda whatever el paso- 7 or 8. im swaying and swinging. kinda racist though??? idk in the valley- 6. the little green valley-6 the hanging tree- 8. i like the horns, i like hanging trees, ummm i like muic saddle tramp- 7. el paso- yeah a 7 ARTHUR ONE MORE SCORE
Not my taste
I much prefer this style of country music
didn't dig the vibe
Surprisingly difficult to rate. Very nearly have it 4. Have really enjoyed it. Very catchy and enjoyable to listen to
I figured this was going to be a chore and I had my 1-star review written in my head before I even found a copy of this album to play that was reasonably close to the original running order. But it was actually pretty good and I very much enjoyed the stories. Musically it wasn't anything special, but I enjoyed it enough for 3 stars.
Outlaw country of the 50s. With an Elvis-style voice, simple slow melodies, and immersive storytelling, the record offers a surprising amount of value and diversity for its time, when most other records fell victim to constant filler, repetition, and lazy writing. There's still a bit of that. Almost half the tracks have little interesting going on. "The Master's Call" sounds like a remixed "Big Iron". But a third do stand out as both unique and impressive. For its innovation, cohesiveness, and above average deep cuts (for 50s standards), I'd give it the 4th star. In a later decade, it would've been 3. Favorites: Big Iron, El Paso, Saddle Tramp
I'm into it... it's the type of music your brain thinks of when it thinks of Western / cowboy music
12/15/23. Some classic country right here, almost as if Elvis was singing country songs. All the songs feel timeless and with the limited country I've listened to, it seems like many artists draw from this.
I can see that this established a genre, but I think we all need to get over the myth of the cowboy gunslinger
Memorable, smooth vocals, great melodies, classic!
Not particularly enjoyable.
Super fun!
Highly listenable with a few standouts like Big Iron and The Hanging Tree.
rootin tootin good time!
Best Song: El Paso. Love me a storytelling song. Worst Song: Saddle Tramp. I might have disliked this one just because I had reached my saturation point on cowboys. Overall: Sure it was annoying when it started, but by the end of the album my leg was kinda jangling and I could imagine myself attending a jamboree. The album's definitely too denim to authentically enjoy, but as almost a parody of itself it kind of slaps.
Love it. It’s one that I listen to in a regular rotation!
I have absolutely no idea how to rate this album. It's so outside of the realm of music that I've been exposed to that I barely know what I'm listening to. I'll tell you one thing, though: it's fucking violent. All the old people that cry about hip hop music -- this is an entire album dedicated to shooting people! Hanging Me Tonight is a story about a dude that murders his ex-girlfriend and her new man in cold blood. There's an ode to Billy the Kid, a notorious murderer; a serial killer feted in Big Iron; and is chock full of stories that glorify the robbing, killing, and all-around depravity of the thug life. Marty Robbins is about that life. Who knew?
Best cowboy music I've ever heard.
Smoky campfire vibes
Really surprised by how beautiful this album is. It’s less country than I expected, at least vocally. Marty croons with the best of them, the harmonies are pretty, and the sound quality is stunning. Plus, it’s got El Paso from the Breaking Bad finale.
Good country songs! The songs tell good stories, that really take you back to that scenery of the Wild West. It reminds me a lot of Johnny Cash And the harmonisation in the songs is fantastic! 7,5 out of 10
Enormément de charme. Chaque chanson est une petite cavalcade dans les paysages de l'Ouest sauvage, avec ses histoires de cowboys chevauchant vers leur perte sous la forme d'une demoiselle souvent trop facile. "Big Iron", "One hundred and sixty acres", "They're hanging me tonight", "Running Gun", "The hanging tree" et le titre qui résume bien l'ensemble : "El Paso" et cette fourbe de Felina, mexicaine aux yeux plus sombres que la nuit, qui se joue des sentiments, certes un peu toxiques, de notre héros qui saura lui pourrir la vie à coup de flingue alors qu'elle n'avait rien demandé, pour au final un sacrifice parfaitement inutile et vaguement pathétique.
Would never have listened to this otherwise, nice album
The albums songs manage to string together a story that really makes you feel like you’re in the old west. These days cowboy has become a trope that’s implies “sexy redneck”. But Cowboys in these songs are cardboard cutouts, they’re real people shaped by the harsh landscape they find themselves in. They’re fights, heartache, and revelations are revealed through the velveteen voice of Marty Robbins, an Arizona native, who lets the transient world of big irons and untamed horses come alive.
Terrible gun trigger discipline on the cover! Very scary to see. Anyways... This is definitely an enjoyable Western albums - a classic mixture of of pop and country blending together to an authentically genuine effect. Robbins is a wonderful storyteller, transforming songs that should feel corny into something fresh.
Were good late listening vibe
Very surprised at how good this was.
Seems like an important album but it’s not something I’m going to seek out again.
Objectively the only song I would choose to put on is Big Iron but it's pretty fun overall.
I am just going to start telling people I left my heart on the hanging tree, too.
Great!
DK - You know what, I came into this album preparing to give this a literal 0/5, but I was blown away instantly by the lyricism, the voice, the amazing story telling, I literally couldn’t believe it; after the first four tracks I thought this was going to be my first 5/5 album. However unfortunately the album becomes blah, stale and low energy after those tracks except for some stand out tracks (“El Paso”, “In the Valley”). For a country album, something I never thought I’d enjoy, he killed it. Rating - 3/5 // Aaron - Iconic intro song. Beautiful storytelling combined with Marty Robbins' voice makes this album an incredible listen. Every song on this project feels cohesive and serves a purpose on the album. There aren't any tracks that feel or sound half-baked. Robbins deeply explores themes of love, adventure, and melancholy in the old wild west of America, the song-writing is so incredibly vivid that from beginning to end you're transported to the landscape Robbins so powerfully describes. I can't think of a single thing I don't like about this album. Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs is a flawless album. 5/5
not my vibe but cool
Not my style
Somewhat niche.
This album is a fantastic example of telling stories through music. Yes, Big Iron is a bit of a meme at this point, but the song carries itself even apart from its reputation. There's a lot of other good stuff in here too. Nothing wrong with firing this entire soundtrack up and wandering the wasteland, it's incredibly iconic and is well deserving of this list. Highlight: Big Iron Lowlight: In The Valley Surprise Hit: El Paso
Gunfighter Ballads And Trail Songs, released in 1959 by country music icon Marty Robbins, stands as a landmark album in the genre, blending storytelling prowess with melodic charm. This review delves into the album's lyrics, music, production, themes, and influence, highlighting both its strengths and weaknesses. Lyrics (Pros): Marty Robbins' songwriting prowess takes center stage in Gunfighter Ballads And Trail Songs. The lyrics are a masterclass in narrative storytelling, vividly painting tales of love, honor, and the Wild West. "Big Iron," a standout track, tells the gripping story of a showdown between a lawman and an outlaw, showcasing Robbins' ability to craft compelling characters and narratives. The poetic quality of the lyrics adds depth to each song, creating a lasting impact on listeners. Lyrics (Cons): While the storytelling is captivating, some may argue that the album lacks lyrical diversity. Many tracks revolve around similar themes of love, loss, and the rugged life of the Old West. The risk here is that the listener might feel a sense of thematic repetition by the end of the album. Music (Pros): The music in Gunfighter Ballads And Trail Songs seamlessly complements Robbins' storytelling. The fusion of traditional country with elements of Western folk and even Latin music (notably in "El Paso") is a testament to Robbins' versatility. The use of acoustic guitars, harmonicas, and subtle orchestrations contributes to the authentic Western sound that defines the album. The melodies are both catchy and emotionally resonant, showcasing Robbins' musical dexterity. Music (Cons): Some may argue that the album lacks musical experimentation. While the traditional country and folk elements are well-executed, there is a lack of sonic diversity that may leave some listeners wishing for more innovation in the musical arrangements. Production (Pros): Gunfighter Ballads And Trail Songs benefits from the impeccable production of Don Law and Frank Jones. The album's sound quality is exceptional for its time, capturing the warmth of Robbins' voice and the nuances of each instrument. The balance between vocals and instrumentation is well-maintained, allowing the narrative elements of the songs to shine through without overpowering the musical accompaniment. Production (Cons): Some purists may argue that the polished production, while excellent, detracts from the raw, gritty atmosphere that could have added another layer of authenticity to the Western themes. The argument here is that a more stripped-down, rustic production style might have enhanced the overall experience. Themes: Gunfighter Ballads And Trail Songs is a thematic masterpiece, exploring the iconic imagery of the American West. The themes of love, violence, and honor are interwoven with tales of cowboys, outlaws, and vast landscapes. Robbins' ability to capture the essence of the Western narrative tradition makes the album a timeless representation of the genre. Influence: This album has left an indelible mark on the country music landscape. It not only solidified Marty Robbins' place in the genre but also inspired future generations of artists. The influence of Gunfighter Ballads And Trail Songs can be heard in the storytelling approach of subsequent country and folk artists, emphasizing the enduring impact of this seminal work. Conclusion: Gunfighter Ballads And Trail Songs remains a cornerstone in country music, celebrated for its storytelling, musical craftsmanship, and thematic richness. While some may find fault in the thematic repetition and lack of musical experimentation, the album's enduring influence and cultural significance cannot be understated. Marty Robbins' ability to transport listeners to the rugged landscapes of the Wild West through his music and lyrics is a testament to the enduring power of Gunfighter Ballads And Trail Songs.
The game was rigged from the start. Great country album with really interesting story telling. Marty Robbins is one cool mother fucker
outlaw red dead Django type shit
Favorite Songs: Big Iron Billy the kid El Paso The little green valley A solid country album like you would imagine a classic country tune. It's all about the cowboy life and your good old gun. And love of course.
Great album, love this man’s voice
Soft Elvis.
Incredible for a drive on the 89A
big iron
A good album with two classics, but it's all cowboy songs. All of it. I'd rather just listen to El Paso on repeat
5/5 Love this
It did sound a bit stereotypical, probably as it became a template for other artists but it was good.
I genuinely do enjoy country but every country album on this list has just been so old and sleepy and drawling and doesn't resonate with me at all Marty Robbins' "Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs," released in 1959, is a concept album that attempts to capture the spirit of the Wild West. While Robbins' storytelling in tracks like "El Paso" is vivid, the album can feel overly dramatic and formulaic in its portrayal of cowboy narratives. The repetitive themes and musical arrangements may wear thin for some listeners. Despite its historical significance, the album's adherence to Western clichés can make it seem dated. While it has moments of charm, "Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs" earns a modest 2/5 for its somewhat formulaic approach and potential lack of broader appeal.
"They'll bury Flo tomorrow, but they're hanging me tonight" I remember having listened to "Big Iron" for the first time a while back, and I had that song on repeat for the rest of the day. Because of that, I was looking forward to hearing anything else this album had to offer. In terms of catchiness, "Big Iron" has the rest beat, and I love the storytelling behind it, as well as the repeated phrases "1 and 19 more," "Big Iron on his hip," etc. (playlist track). I wasn't particularly a huge fan of the rest of the songs mostly due to the style, but as a 1959's record goes, this is as good as it gets for me. After reading through the lyrics, especially on "Running gun," I realized a running theme between a couple of the songs off this record. I initially thought "running gun" was the reverse POV of "Big Iron," both the outlaws have 20 notches on their pistols, and get shot before their gun leaves the leather, with onlookers watching their death. However there are some differences with who shoots them (Bounty hunter vs. Arizona ranger, and Agua Fria vs. Amarillo). Both these songs tell a similar story to that in "Billy the Kid" where he has 21 notches on his pistol, and is shot by a sheriff, maybe has something to do with a divine similarity in the deaths of those who live the outlaw life, like it says in Running gun, "And I knew that where I lie today, he too must lie some day." Cool record with a good underlying theme of cowboys and outlaws in the old west. 3/5
Only because of the Fallout Games and nostalgia this get 4 stars.
Another album I think I may have been fine to go to the grave without listening to. Might have scored better whilst watching a good spaghetti western!
Not something I'd normally listen to, but I actually enjoyed it once I got into it. I love me some Marlon Williams, and Marty Robbins vocals were similar so it might be something I revisit at some point. Mainly I enjoyed this album because I put it on while my 12 yo was trying to go to sleep next to me after getting very freaked out after sneakily watching a horror movie she wasn't supposed to at a sleepover - helped distract her enough to get off to sleep, so thanks for that Marty! Fave track: Saddle Tramp
Always loved El Paso!
Marty Robbins' "Gunfighter Ballads And Trail Songs" is a true gem that transcends the boundaries of time and genre. As someone who appreciates storytelling in music, this album captivates me with its vivid narratives and cinematic quality. The iconic twang of Robbins' voice, coupled with the evocative instrumentation, transported me to the rugged landscapes of the Old West. The storytelling prowess displayed in tracks like "Big Iron" and "El Paso" is exceptional. Robbins has a unique ability to weave tales of love, honor, and conflict, painting a rich tapestry of characters and landscapes through his lyrics. The emotional depth in his delivery, especially in ballads like "They're Hanging Me Tonight," adds a layer of authenticity that resonates with me. Musically, the arrangements are masterfully crafted, complementing the thematic elements of each song. The use of traditional country instruments, such as guitars and harmonicas, enhances the authenticity of the Wild West atmosphere. The album strikes a perfect balance between storytelling and musicality, making it a timeless classic in country music. What sets "Gunfighter Ballads And Trail Songs" apart is its versatility. From the upbeat and catchy "Cool Water" to the poignant "Running Gun," Robbins showcases a range of emotions and moods. This album is more than just a collection of songs; it's a narrative that unfolds with each track.
Definitely not my kind of music; however, the storytelling is great.
For its genre, this is a classic. I have actually surprisingly heard this album once before and several of the songs I've heard numerously. There was a time when I was questing for this cool Western sound a la Nancy Sinatra 'Bang Bang'..
Wow, I was so into this for the first couple of songs and then I had to jump out of a window. Even still, it follows me!! There should be a warning label on this that reads: WARNING: use as directed. Avoid high places. Not intended for continuous consumption. For best results, and to maintain sanity, use fewer than three songs per hour. If extended listening occurs, pray for an early death.
The wild west was so romantic and violent. Or romanticized? Surely it was just like Marty Robbins and western movies made it sound, right?
Started hot with Big Iron and unfortunately none of the subsequent tracks lived up to it. All the songs about guns, killing people, and women strangely made me think about gangsta rap. Like why does society glorify the “olden days of yonder year” and vilify 50 Cent. Marty pines about fighting over women, singing as if they are possessions to be won. He may say it more respectfully, but how is that much different than rapping about b*tches and h*es. And his characters are riding around shooting everyone…bravely it is portrayed. Sounds like a 2Pac track to me. I bring this up not to judge Marty because I wasn’t around in 1959, but rather it is an interesting parallel that kept making more sense the more I thought about it.
Fun album
Ja wel een heerlijk begin, daarna wat cheesy zoals we al zeiden
De cover zegt alles wel
Country! Felt like a depressed cowboy listening to this, really had me in my feelings listening to it, especially on a rainy day. Cool record from a country legend.
-have never heard of this guy -THIS IS THE TIKTOK SONG. the “big iron on his hip” SONG -oh i LOVE his voice -they’re hanging me tonight is seriously so good -omggggg all the voices together in cool water -i really am loving EVERYTHING about this album which is unexpected -all these songs are really hitting the mark for me. not one that i feel is boring or the same as all the rest -its very old western cowboy but thats what makes it WORK! -idk why i was fully expecting this man to start singing the hunger games hanging tree. LOL -anyways its a good song just like the rest! getting a four stars for me -just because i love music like this and his voice scratches that part of my brain PERFECTLY
Altsåå.. Big Iron er måske fed nok, men tre andre sange fra denne plade er på samme melodi. Egentlig er amerikansk country nok ok, men altså hvorfor handler det om det vilde vesten i 1959? Minder om den der Newson plade der sang om villages i 2007 altså, det er nok lige for nostalgisk og plat til mig
Delightful
Heck yeah
5 stars, why not
For the cowboys, my grandma would approve.
Eh
I’m sure my dad has this on vinyl. Reminds me of home. And for some reason I have a soft spot for westerns and Texas music.
Yeehaw
Lofi beats to study/shoot outlaws to
This is like stepping directly into a high-stakes, Technicolor Western. Marty Robbins’ voice is absolute gold, smooth as a crooner, but with a persistent, underlying grit that makes these stories of outlaws and frontier justice feel incredibly visceral. From the iconic, quick-draw tension of "Big Iron" to the sweeping, tragic romance of "El Paso", the album masters the art of cinematic storytelling.
Really enjoyed this! Favourited 3 tracks.
No
7/10. Shame its over 3 chords add some synthes could be amazing. Maybe a project for the future.
Big Iron absolutely whips. I'm tempted to say that was totally attributable to positive associations built while playing Fallout New Vegas; however, I like the rest of this album a lot! Cool Water and El Paso are highlights. I'm learning through this exercise that I like corny pastiche-y music. It's fun! I'm not sorry!
slaps actually
This was a treat.
Great memories listening to this with my family. Perfect album to put on in a low key setting
Story telling unmatched. Every song has the same vibe but enough to keep it unique. Definitely not a style I’d like to shuffle onto though, very specific vibe to enjoy.
*didn’t listen to this one*
Solid
Not for me. Relatively normal country music with little interest.
amazing i love it!
I enjoyed this especially they're hanging me tonight, big iron and el paso. Apparently the album was recorded in one 8 hour session which impressive considering the band sounds so tight. Especially Marty Robbins himself who really feels at ease singing these songs even though i think melodically they're quite tricky to sing. Alot of notes to get stuck on. But it adds a sence of authenticity when they all sound so relaxed. It s like the fun, adventure and sorrow conveyed in the lyrics were reflected in the pressures and joy in the playing of the whole band. What i mean is a cowboy record recorded in 1959 might be called phony but if the theme were a vehicle for artists to express themselves isn't that what arts about?
Solid ballads about... Guns and shooting. 3/5
Big Iron and El Paso are both absolute jams.
Listened Before? N What a gem! These are all great classic country western songs. I loved this album. I was familiar with Big Iron from New Vegas, of course, but the rest were mostly new to me and I enjoyed it beginning to end. Added to Library? Y Songs added to playlist: Big Iron
country AF
Sounds like a soundtrack to a spaghetti western. It’s good. 4/5
Not for me.
Just what you’d expect: music a cowboy in a western would be listening to
This is definitely a comfort album of mine
I think this is an interesting artifact that probably deserves to be on the list, if the list is about mapping out the evolution of modern music. But it's too damn cheesy as almost all fifties music is. Just doesn't feel like it has a soul. Probably influenced Johnny Cash, though?
Several familiar songs here, and a high nostalgic value for me. I imagine the many kids that listened to this album through the years, envisioning themselves as western heroes. Oddly I find a sense of wholesomeness in that; a sense not common to the art of my time, and it feels good to bathe in that world for a while. This is an album that's been missing from my life. Adding to my collection. 3.7
Very nostalgic album for an old guy like me. My older brother had this album when I was a kid. I really liked the clean, rich, full sound for such an old album. Marty has a great voice and told a story well.
6/10 Fave song: "Running Gun" listening to a 50s country/western album about the wild west in 2023 makes for a gordian knot of (self-)mythologizing and stereotyping so i'm not even going to try to unpack the lyrics or place in culture. robbins has an amazing voice and the backing music was varied enough to keep things from getting too stale
Fill in soon. 7/10
BIG IRON
Geitin
Sounds like a soundtrack for a western movie. Somehow I like these songs.
It amazes me sometimes that this was actually a thing back in the late 1950s. Or rather, still a thing. A country artist who dedicated an entire album to songs about gunfighter ballads and trail songs. What a strange world it was back in the post WWII era. This was fine, almost like listening to what Quentin Tarantino would have had on the record player at the age of 5.
Really enjoyed this one. This may be the most inoffensive music ever created.
I'm a sucker for these old time outlaw country artists and albums. It's almost a guilty pleasure as they stray far from what I typically listen to. Good story telling. Mary Robbins may be one of the better artist in this genre and style. Loved this album. I've listened to this album many times before reviewing it here. And I will listen to it again It's too bad these types of country artists rarely exist now a days. New country is basically just teangy pop music. No substance. Formulaic. Bullshit.
Ja opzich wel cute
One thing I love about country albums is the stories that are told through the songs. These songs tell amazing stories whilst also being such gentle tunes and such a nice listen. Gentle country music might be becoming one of my favourite music genres. All songs were just really nice to listen to but stand out tracks were: Big Iron, Utah Carol and The Hanging Tree.
Prob deserves 5 stars but old Western music just isn't my cup of tea.
Banger of an album. A mix of storytelling and music that brings a very authentic Western vibe.
Slaps!!! Love his voice - come Elvis , very old school yeehaw got a pistol on my hip vibe Faves: big iron, Master’s call, hanging tree
Rating: 7/10 Great singing, great storytelling, and overall very good writing. Really enjoyed this album, also has very good production and mixing. The album is very one-note though, it does not need to be 15 tracks long. Everything sounds very good and is done well but does not needs to be this long, still a very good album. Favorite tracks: Big Iron, El Paso. Worst song: Master's Call, sounds too much like Big Iron.
not my cup of tea. listened to only about half of the album. I'm positive i didn't miss out on anything. How this could be in the top 1000 albums is truly mind boggling.
Not my style
Folksy but not my style. It’s just too old. Can’t think of a time I would want to actually listen to this
Not my typical type but good for what it was
Not a bit fan of this genre but this held together well.
I enjoyed the music style, it was an old country sort of style. I liked that all the songs had a complete story in them.
giddy up. love this shit. El Paso - best cowboy song of all time.
Weirdest genre ever. El Paso is a bop though.
Track 1 and El Paso. Not my vibe but I got into it.
This is the kind of album that I am here for! I would never listen to this on my own and here I am jamming out to some awesome trail songs!
I can’t imagine the world in which this a popular album. House wives at home listening to Marty Robbins croon about his big gun. I’ll give Robbins some credit, he’s got a great voice and tells vivid stories. This album is a time capsule of a different world, one I can’t relate to in anyway and I don’t want to. 4.1/10
Dang it. I feel like I've watched 4 westerns in the span of an hour. Does "bucker" precede the current "fucker"? That's what it sounded like. Maybe it's because people have said it too often to me?
Pretty surprisingly fun. This is some vintage cowboy songs... some pretty johnny cash-like themes, but all in pop-old-country sounds with some actually pretty cool spanish-guitar flourishes through the songs. Marty is a squeaky clean sounding that makes it very easy to listen to and enjoy.
Fun. Quite fun. Its such a bop. It's so simple in style and chill. But the vocals are quite amazing to listen to.
Nice little Americana
I mean wow. Im not a country fan but this album just shows its because todays country is just dog shit. The story telling, the smooth singing, the feeling of being on the ranch with him.
Yeah a really cool sounding album. I like the sound of this era - the main and backing vocals work really well together. Some of the stories drag on a bit and I'm not a massive cowboy fan but that's a small quibble
This album blew me away. I had never heard of Marty Robbins until today. I'm a big fan of westerns but not the slick, naff John Wayne type ones and I was a.bit worried that I'd encounter some cheese here. I needn't have worried! The songs were classy, well recorded given the 1959 release date, simple instrumentation and filled with familiar western tropes but just great quality! Cowboys were very popular at the time in movies, TV and toys before the space.race took over, now we are approaching a time where these recordings will be closer to the time period they depict than the world we.live in now. I have already listened to the album three times in its entirety and have been singing along even from the first listen with the familiar melodies, repeated phrases and resolutions. I will.be coming back to this album again and again I'm sure.
Like. 4
Not my atyle
1959. Classic country. It's okay; a few good tracks but mostly repetitive and uninteresting.
“Patrolling the Mojave almost makes you wish for a nuclear winter” Favourite tracks: Big Iron, They’re Hanging Me Tonight, Cool Water, The Master’s Call, El Paso
It was interesting to finally listen to this album in full. Like most people who've heard of Marty Robbins, we know Big Iron from the video game Fallout New Vegas, and also from the memes the song spawned. The rest of the album is a great listen, though country isn't my favourite genre. Still glad I gave it a chance though.
WE’RE GETTING OUT OF OKLAHOMA WITH THIS ONE!
Roots of country music. Western ballads. Not my thing but enjoyed the south of the border flair.
I think it's ok if we forget this album.
Songs To Be Tied-to-Railroad-tracks By. Surprised how much I enjoyed this actually, always assumed I disliked all country.
Country at its best. Connected some of the pop diner style singing with Spanish guitar and classic country storytelling. I already liked him because of Big Iron, El Paso is now one of my favorite songs ever.
Real good. 3.8
Not a country fan but this was OK. Lots of old cowboy songs on here. Have to be in the right mood but wouldn't complain if someone threw this on at a dive bar.
I probably only like this album as much as I do because it gets me nostalgic about Fallout: New Vegas, but if by golly if ever want to feel like rootin’ tootin’ cowboy, this is your album.
Fucking banger of an album. Of course, big iron and El paso, I already knew. But there's a few in here that are going to be kept in rotation. This album does so well at making me long for a place and time that doesn't exist now or even when it was recorded. The imagery and feelings in the music is amazing. Hard to believe that the entire album was recorded in 8 hours.
Exactly what the label says. Twangy cowboy songs.
Loved it
It's cool how each song is its own story, but it is a lot of words lol I enjoy listening to these songs but they do start to blend into each other as you get further into the record. It's a lot of fun though!
Starts with a banger, thought I was gonna get a real cowboy story. Instead I just got a wannabe daytime TV loser cowboy.
Je suis resté agréblement surpris de cet album. C'est quand même folky comme country et c'est plus le genre qui m'attiree. Les chansons paraissent plus authentique que ce qui se fait aujourd'hi, même si on sait très bien que clairement l'artiste ne devait rien connaître de la vie qu'il raconte dans ses chansons. Un tantinet répétitif, mais une très bonne écoute. 8/10
This is not my favorite genre of music but I still enjoyed this album, although it did get a little samey for me at times. I did not know that this is where El Paso from breaking bad was from so that was fun.