Reviews (page 7 of 14)
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.
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
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
Memorable, smooth vocals, great melodies, classic!
Super fun!
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.
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
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.
Very surprised at how good this was.
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
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
Great album, love this man’s voice
big iron
Only because of the Fallout Games and nostalgia this get 4 stars.
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.
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
Delightful
Heck yeah
Lofi beats to study/shoot outlaws to
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.
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?
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
Sounds like a soundtrack to a spaghetti western. It’s good. 4/5
Just what you’d expect: music a cowboy in a western would be listening to
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
Fill in soon. 7/10
BIG IRON
Geitin
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.
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.
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
Not my typical type but good for what it was
giddy up. love this shit. El Paso - best cowboy song of all time.
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!
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
Like. 4
“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
WE’RE GETTING OUT OF OKLAHOMA WITH THIS ONE!
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
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
4+ Nice
8/10
I actually enjoyed this quite a bit more than I thought I would. Feels like the soundtrack to an era past in a different world, and there's something very relaxing about it.
Better than expected! Didn’t think I’d find myself enjoying an old country album such as this but not bad overall.
Great storytelling, I wanted to hate it because it was soooooo country western but honestly it was a great listen
I really liked this!
имеет свой шарм соответствующий эпохе
I dig it
Linear, smooth vibe throughout. Wonderful voice.
Put bluntly, the best album I’ve heard in a while, and I feel no need to elaborate furthur
Yee haw. Big Iron/10
Love it.
Wouldn't ever have listened to this otherwise, apart from the odd one on film soundtracks of course. Murder ballads, tall tales, this stuff is gold really. The story ones are the best, lead by Big Iron.
As others have said, yee-haw
3.75
Fun record. I wonder if I enjoyed it much because it was actually good, or if it was just a fresh breeze compared to the records you usually get (rock mostly). It made me want to go to southern US, so I guess that’s a good sign?
I have a soft spot for old Country, there is just something about the storytelling that makes the stories come to life with the music. This album was right up my alley and it kicks off with the very, very good "Big Iron". While none of the other songs quite live up to the same greatest multiple songs come very close ("El Paso" and "The Master's Call" to name a few). The story telling is really the star of the show with murder ballads, stories about gunslingers and Cowboys. Some of the songs are even quite humorous like "The Strawberry Roan" (props for never rhyming buck with fuck). All in all a very good listen and something quite different from the other albums on this list. 4 bucking broncos out of 5.
Extra points for being exactly what the title said it was about. Big Iron is a jam, I liked 160 acres too despite it being the only track on the album where someone doesn't die.
Love it! Perfect Western & country music. I'd have never listened to this album if it wasn't for this site. Great storytelling and a clear voice. So many bops. I'm not sure how often I'll revisit it, and that's why I'm giving it 4.
Not something I would routinely listen to, but not bad
Yeehaw pardner
Está muy bien, pero es un poco repetitivo.
YEE (and equally, by the same measure, let me make this quite abundantly clear) HAW
I was gonna give it 3 stars, but it's really not that bad considering country is my least listened to or favorite genre. And as a fan of Fallout: New Vegas, I gotta give it at least that extra star for Big Iron, and also for El Paso because it was in the last episode of Breaking Bad.
What a sweet, clear voice Marty Robbins had.
Something I would never put on otherwise. Listening to the entries record takes you away from the age to appreciate it more.
There's real storytelling in these songs, as well as a great Western spirit. Made me feel like a cowboy listening at a campfire.
Speaking purely in terms of gunfighter ballads and/or trail songs, you can’t get better than Marty Robbins and Marty, apparently, could never do better than this. So if gunfighter ballads and/or trail songs be what your looking for, look no further. You have found the peak. If gunfighter ballads and/or trail songs ain’t what you’re looking for, then your SOL. Safe travels, friends. 4/5
This album gives me fond memories of my grandfather and Fallout: New Vegas.
Yes, Big Iron has been memed to hell and back, but it’s still a great introduction to this group of surprisingly emotional tunes of the Old West. Comforting and straightforward.
Musica de cowboy dos anos 50. But, damn!
Just a lovely change.
Perfect music to listen to whilst you are are cleaning your '44 after a hard day on the saddle
Being a child of the 80's, I do not understand the fascination with cowboys in the 50's. That being said, this is an interesting collection. I love Cool Water and El Paso. Amazing the whole thing was recorded in one 8-hour session. They were about efficiency in the 50's. Post Elvis but could not be further from the future of music. Hard to believe modern country evolved from this. Well done Marty.
It's hard to separate this music from the Fallout: New Vegas memes, but it's actually quite lovely on its own. I like how Robbins sings, and the vocal harmonies are great too. I'm into it, man, I'm really into it.
YEEHAW. This was so much fun to listen to. Robbins is a wonderful storyteller, has a really unique voice, and every song had this vibe that made you feel like you were in the wild west. Big Iron really sets the tone for the entire album too as a first song.
I liked it
This got mo fucking Big Iron on it. Doesn't matter if the rest of the album is good or bad this is at the very least an instant 3. This album is definetly what it advertises. It is essentially a bunch of wild west songs. Its pretty good in that regard. All the song tell a story some of them are related others are different. It is kind of an anthology album in a sense. Robbins has a nice voice and the way he does falsettos and elongates notes is pleasing and distinct. Although the instrumentation is nothing too complicated it gets the point accross great and really compliments the wild west vibes of the album.
ok
Very fun "outlaw country" album with great storytelling. Not every song is a winner, but a few tracks (Big Iron, Master's Call) pick up the slack. Worth a listen.
in another life it is me and my trusty horse or maybe a mule, my bedroll strapped to his side and we're outlaws roaming the entire west, posting up by a nice shady tree every sunset to make a fire and set up camp. i am going to collect nuts and berries and shoot a rabbit or some shit with a bow and arrow, and sometimes a gun i find on some dead guy until it runs out of ammo and it's just dead weight. we are running from the law for some petty crimes and maybe also accusations of witchcraft. i'm learning how to make really good rabbit confit and jammy berries on multi-zone fires with a cast iron pan that i made myself with the help of a friendly old smith from the last town i was in (i will end up settling down to become a smith eventually for a bit before i go back out to roam and eventually die in a river where i float all the way to the ocean) it is so funny that this guy's spotify picture is him looking like a pastor
This is exactly what you think it is and such a very specific and spot on collection of the genre as described by the album title
I dig this. Very mellow, striding Western songs with great melodies and hooks.
Honestly, I enjoyed this a lot more than I thought I would.
His voice is silky and the reverb is key. While this may be simple music, his passion shines through and creates emotional response. His story telling is captivating to absorb. I think this is excellent pre-country music and the outlaw mentality is just a fun, extinct music style. Would love to work in casual music.
Two classics on this album, Big Iron and El Paso. Brings me back to running around the wastelands in Fallout 3
Heard before. Don't remember much, except Big Iron. Might need to listen again. Heard again, was pretty nice.
Good cowboy
I enjoyed this more western ballad based approach. However, there is not much variety between songs though they are executed very well.
Wonderful set from Marty Robbins. Would be great for a Western Soundtrack. Lots of Elvis vibes.
Man, this was really good! Although most of the songs all sounded the same, it was very enjoyable. Fav Song: El Paso
Not something I would want to listen to regularly, but this was truly an enjoyable experience. Very solid album.
Fallout New Vegas-ass album, decent, 3-4 stars probs
First of all, I have always really loved the song "El Paso." It's a masterpiece of the "Western" kind of Country and Western. It tells a compelling story, Robbins' voice is wonderfully warm, the backup vocals are superb, and the guitar playing is marvelous. The rest of the album is much the same. Which is maybe why I got a little tired of it by the end. That said, I still think it's the definitive album of Western ballads, and as such I very much appreciate it.
I generally would not be interested by a full album of gunfighter ballads and trail songs, but this one was worth the listen.
Not particularly my favorite style nor subject matter but it gets points for being a welcome change of pace. Very Lawrence Welk!
I went into this album with the mindset that it is old and I can't compare it to new music. I enjoyed this album, as it felt like the musical version of fun westerns.
I’m not sure why, but I’ve always had a bit of a soft spot for old country music. Modern country mostly sounds a bit rubbish to me, but the older stuff generally tends to win me over. I tend to pick the country radio stations when I play GTA. Maybe it’s down to that. Songs I already knew: none Favourites: Big Iron Much as expected, I did quite enjoy this. There is a bit of a rock element to be found, in the same way that perhaps Johnny Cash is a bit country and a bit rock. I enjoyed the storytelling through the lyrics when you don’t tend to get in a lot of modern music. There are some nice harmonies with the vocals, and the instrumentation in fun. Overall, I quite enjoyed this. I’m not sure I’ll be rushing back to listen again, but I enjoyed it for today.
Some great tunes
Yeehaw cowboy altijd tof om zo een albums te ontdekken.
The Master’s Call is a bop
very enjoyable 4.
The original gangster raps, Marty throws down about loose women, crimes of passion, being born into criminal enterprise, and getting your slice of the pie. A little repetitious, the album mastering is inconsistent. But the sings are classics.
Like binging little books on tape
Really quite good! While I'm not the biggest fan of country and western usually, I found myself following the stories as much as I was listening to the songs, and even then I quite enjoyed the music itself. Maybe it caught me on a good day or this list is getting me used to country music a bit more now. Fun album. Favourite: Big Iron
Reminds me of my grandpa. Liked the whole album. Big Iron is my favourite track.
More interesting Elvis
Engaging and interesting. Already liked some of these! Very visual storytelling. Lots of outlaws.
Really great old country
notes - classic country by singer songwriter marty robbins - similar to other artists of the time johnny cash, gene autry - dum chik guitar parts and plinky bass - this album has really intense reverb and harmonies that give it a spookiness that adds to the songs stories - marty has a fantastic voice - lyrics are consistently great - el paso is a classic of the genre - super simple but done really well fav - big iron - theres a reason this song spawned so many memes - fantastic least fav - billy the kid - sounded like a worse version of better songs on the album really good but not something i can see myself returning too super often 4/5
All of the songs sound similar on this album but the lyrics and storytelling really make up for it. I love Marty Robbin’s voice. Love this record! 4.5/5
This is a great example of the genre. Each song told a tale that was simple and understandable. The sounds evoked an era that bring back memories of my watching old-timey movies of my youth. Scale: 5 - My absolute favorites. 4 - Albums I like. 3 - I enjoyed listening to it but wouldn't seek it out. 2 - Didn't like. 1 - Absolute shit.
Love it! Hadn't heard this before but it's cool.
I enjoyed this a lot!
Such an easy listen. Would consider buying this on vinyl.
Yeeee Haaaa
If one could only hear on a dusty Western road with hours to go on a long drive. A classic of Americana, with professional playing, crisp production and pretty great storytelling, Hemingwaysesque at times. A lot of hearbreak, blood and death for such straightforward singing.
This is quite good. Robbins’ voice is smooth, with great range and clear delivery. The lyrics are simple, colorful and tell great stories that put you right there. The vocal harmonies are extremely dated but add a distinctive charm to the overall sound.
Of course El Paso is a classic tune, but I enjoyed the rest of this record. Robbin’s voice is as western smooth as it gets and the musicianship is perfect. Surprisingly good recording quality too.
This Definitely brings to mind film score music or a 1980s Dennis Potter series. I’m a sucker for a song with a story, and I loved these short, little vignettes. Might even have had a tear in my eye at times. This would be a solid 3.5 but because of Marty’s voice and cool delivery, I’ll be generous.
Great singing and guitar skills. Great storytelling
Big iron on his hip! The other songs are pretty good too.
Cool singing and story telling of times gone by
Maybe I could be a cowboy
Was this the peak “Cowboy Lore” era of U.S. culture? I’m sure a lot of ink has been spilled on the anthropological phenomenon. This is good old Country music anyway, and nearly flawlessly delivered. Though perhaps for the material it is a tad too polished and refined.
He has such a distinctive voice and style. El Paso will be stuck in my head for a while.
bangin
Liked this way more than I thought I would. Guy is a great storyteller
Shout out Fallout: New Vegas! 4 I think I really enjoyed a lot of this. Outlaw country done really well. If you told me this was an influence on Elvis’ music I’d absolutely believe it. There were a few songs where I felt like they were repeating the hook from Big Iron again and one song literally felt like an ad for just water. Outside of that, though, I think I found a direction to start a country journey if I want. Also this album has real Better Call Saul energy. I could imagine Jimmy doing his thing to any one of these songs. Favorites: Big Iron, A Hundred and Sixty Acres, Cool Water, Billy the Kid, Utah Carol, El Paso, The Hanging Tree
Tää oli kyllä jollain typerällä tavalla aivan loistava.
Sydämeni sykkii tämmöselle korniudelle. En tiedä onko tää objektiivisesti hyvää musaa mut pakko antaa 4/5. Master's Call, ah mikä melodramaattisuuden huipennus!
Hype hype hype, slaps. 4.5 stars
Alright, this is country-adjacent music I like: Really pleasant voice singing about old west & cowboy things
This is literally the most western country album ever made. Chock full of ballads of sadness and lonely. Of the western cowboy and his numerous problems. Still holds up better than a lot of country albums especially for that time. Probably thanks to the Fallout games.
Il a une très belle voix. Je me suis laissé bercer par les mélodies. Un petit côté nostalgique.
I was surprised by how many of these songs I already new. It's a great example of storytelling country & western.
A fun album
Well that was a pleasant surprise.
Hey, another great discovery. This is a perfect selection for this kind of list because I never would have listened to this otherwise. I don't think I've ever heard a Marty Robbins song, except maybe on a soundtrack somewhere. I loved it. The production is amazing. They really knew how to make records back then. And Robbins isn't just a great singer, but a commanding storyteller as well. I've come to really dig a lot of American music from '58-'62. The stuff you hear in David Lynch movies. It's very uncynical and uncool and kind of wide-eyed and haunting. I love it.
Delightful throwback to the era of identifiable good guys and bad guys. Will listen to again
Classic cowboy folk songs! Star of the show is Big Iron & El Paso.
Like a smirk on the face of an older relative telling you an entertaining story, there's a beautiful contrast between the warmth of the delivery and the subject matter being delivered. You know it's full of embellishments and they know you know, but it doesn't matter. The veracity of the facts aren't the point. The emotional connection to the storyteller is the point.
I enjoyed this a lot more than I thought
I suddenly got an urge to watch John Wayne movies and read Lucky Luke. This is peak wild west music only behind Ennio Morricone. Is it something I would listen to again? Maybe. It's a very fun album to listen to.
Kende hem niet maar werd er heel vrolijk van. Mooie snik ook.
Fun and as expected. Best song is El Paso.
I dislike that this is the first one cause New vegas
This was a great album actually and the sound is excellent, despite its age. Easy to understand lyrics and good tunes all around and super classic country. 7/10.
Nothing unique musically for that time, but a fun uplifting listen with deeper lyricism than what country was provided in that period’s mainstream.
Loved it! All quite samey but found myself singing along and enjoyed listening.
how delightful, makes me want to listen to Patsy Cline! some of the songs sound a little like early Elvis, leaning into blues territory.
It’s weird I’ve heard so many of these. Delightful little ditties about murder.
One has to be in the mood, but a wonderful little slice of American music history. Gunfighter ballads…Marty Robbins laid the groundwork for the greatness of T or NWA? Lol!
This album is incredible, made even more so by how much the Western genre is largely forgotten under the large umbrella of Country. Songs that tell a story, songs with strong melodies, even if repetitive at times, make this an easy listen. Yes, this is the Western in Country & Western, and not the Country. This distinct difference has fallen out of popularity but what is now considered old Country, particularly Outlaw, seems to be hanging on with artists like Sturgill Simpson. Either way, this is probably an educational listen for so many people and for that reason its inclusion on 1001 is very important. An added bonus is getting to listen to this in stereo, which makes for reconciling hearing something from 1959 sound so good an easy task for the mind.
Kinda cheezy and goofy, but at the same time, quite enjoyable. Never dared to listen to Marty Robbins before, but heard this album mentioned as being a classic record. More like a guilty pleasure for me. Thanks for the suggestion!
I’m not old enough for this album to be nostalgic for me but, nevertheless, listening to this has triggered memories of my childhood. Regardless this is a fun album of folksy, cowboy songs. I like it.
Culturally significant, get me to the nearest saloon.
Brilliant. Great voice and you can hear every word. I didn't even know I needed gunfighter ballads in my life. Would have been 5 stars except for bringing ole JC into to tell him that stealing cattle is wrong.
I enjoyed this album - it's 1950s nostalgia for the Wild West, and Robbins has a smooth voice.
This is an enjoyable album. Nice story telling.
Unlike the album cover which looks like an image of Marty Robbins printed, cut out and glued poorly to red paper, Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs was an authentic well rounded album with interesting lyrics and outlaw imagery. Gives old cowboy tv show vibes. I personally didn't like the kind of background vocals featured but Robbins' lead was decent. The music is nice though works better as a complementary piece to those lyrics. Liked Big Iron and They're Hanging Me Tonight the most.
Because of some video game Steven played. I have a lot of prior exposure to this guy. Only one song. But my love for it carried over.
as much as I always say I don't like country there's some really nice songs here. Especially the first few on the album plus Master's Call
Voz e vibe gostosas
Yeehaw!
This is great late 50s period music for me. Reminds me of my dad.
Marty's vocals ride a little close to Sinatra-in-a-bad-way at times, but the instrumentals are impressively clean and Gunfighter Ballads is iconic despite the memetics.
I've never quite appreciated how much propaganda goes into western songs untill paying attention to this. Honestly found myself unexpectedly enjoying the atmosphere and the tall tales told. The musical arrangement and the vocal performance are nothing to write home about, but the simplicity and a kind of earnestness that goes into this storyteling caused me to slip into a smiliar mindset as when listening to fables, and it caused the whole album to go by in a flash.
Beautiful and classic
God s med Marty
I love this stuff! Old country that's new to me is always approved for listening.
I know I've heard "El Paso" numerous times. It's a great song, and when I played this album it was the one my wife was waiting to hear. Definitely a change of pace album for me. It is such a different type of album from what I normally listen to, but that's not a bad thing. It's a simple recording but the songs are not simple. You would think that the songs being of the same type would be boring, but not really. Most of them are short enough to hold your interest, get in and get done fairly quickly. The Beatles' tracks were like that, too. 2 minutes or so and bam, you're done. That brevity is sometimes lacking in thing I listen to. Anyway, I dug the pieces, even though they harken back to a time before rock. It is a novelty but not a bad one. Something to come back to but not to listen to every day.
Really enjoyed this album. A different era of country music - the golden years in my opinion. A lot of the songs have the same qualities - smooth lead vocals that fill your ears, sweet backing vocal harmony, straight ahead musical arrangements that they play and pluck the heck out of, and some nostalgic or heart-tugging lyrics. Robbins and his band don't disrespect the songs recorded by others and the originals fit right in. Wish there were a few more originals. Listening to the album was like watching an old Western. Real easy listening.
This album was a real treat to listen to. Although my favorite songs on the album were all written by Robbins the arrangements of traditional songs and covers were done really well. The musicianship on here is excellent and the lyrics really do take you back to the fairytale image of what the old west was. I listened to a few other albums of his after this and enjoyed them as well.
first listen wow this is a real treat, never listened to tejano
4.4 + A delightful country-western record with stories of cowboys and outlaws, set against a sunny desert backdrop. Robbins sings with a clear, bright tenor, supported with barbershop-style backing vocals and guitar. There are also subtle tinges of mariachi. Highlights include "Big Iron", "El Paso", and "Cool Water."
Big Iron is a fun song. There are some actually really nice musical progressions and modulations. All the songs have these tight narratives, and are just so enjoyable. The Master's Call is christian fan fic, though a god killing 100 cattle with a lighting bolt is pretty rad. El Paso is really violent for such an upbeat song. This was a great time.
timeless and legendary western nostalgia ballads. truly infectious storytelling in these lyrics! 4.5/5
Good album. No skips and felt sort of comforting and peaceful for some reason.
I really enjoyed the storytelling on this.
Amazing! Fallout 3 memories :)
na prvu nisan toliko bila oduševljena, ali neke pisme su mi baš dobre i sigurno ću ih opet poslušat (npr. Billy The Kid, obožavan te mutacije dur-mol). Iako, za tako "pozitivan" ugođaj, dosta tekstova je o ubojstvima haha
Wow hahah dođe mi da se postanem cowboy(girl?) “ I've got a hundred and sixty acres full of sunshine \\ Got a hundred and sixty million stars above” Otkrila san posebno misto u srcu za country 50-ih ili Martyija whatever
Did not expect this to show up on this list but I should have. Stevie had a vinyl with some of these greats on it and we used to sing them all the time. Classics like Big Iron, El Paso, The Hanging Tree are great country songs. I think what I liked most was the way Marty was able to tell a story in his songs that was unique but also so very country.
Big Iron was my grandads favourite song because of the story telling. I think that the narratives are miles better than the tunes but I still really enjoy x
This is THE ALBUM to show people who say they don't like country music. I'm not even a big country fan but this is a fantastic album. It reminds me of what my Grandpa would call "attitude adjustment" music. You just can't be mad while listening to it. El Paso invokes memories I forgot I had of childhood. The fact that this album was recorded in a single 8 hour session makes it all the more impressive just how good the album really is.
Perfect album to listen to while reading Steel Ball Run
cannot believe I loved this
Me transportou pra outra época. Gostei.
Kinda fun! It includes El Paso, Marty's biggest hit.
Excellent.
Big fan
From the golden age of country. This is an absolute classic from a time when the wild west dominated entertainment.
Good old country. Propably the most country album I have listened to. Loved it 4 stars.
This is a more solid eight hours' work than I've ever done in my life.
Just a collection of very solid and enjoyable country ballads. I don’t think Marty really killed and got killed all those times, though
Ääälskar
That was really enjoyable, for a certain country/western vibe but really solid
Definitely worth looking into.
Rating: 7/10 Best songs: Hanging tree, Saddle trump
Well, I love this. Like, really. Makes me think of the westerns my grandpas and dad watch. And also, Quentin Tarrantino. There is a lot of kitsche here. Every song is the same. But it's great. 3.5 but rounding up because I read that he was a pioneer of outlaw country. And, that's a subgenre I truly love.
Really enjoyed this!
Jeden z najbardziej memicznych pickow jakie pojawily sie na liscie, bo ranger z wielkim ironem przy pasie, to nie tylko kultowa pozycja na ost falloutowym, ale bardziej ostatnio kojarzy sie z zoltym psem, no ale wspolczesnie sam koncept westernowych ballad jest zartem, bo opowiadaja one historie tak abstrakcyjne wspolczesnie, ze slucha sie ich jako zartu, a gunfighter ballads and trail songs, to wlasnie zbior takich przyspiewek, orginalne wydanie z 59 zamyka sie w 35 minutach, ale spotifaj ma wersje deluxowa z 99 dodajaca 3 kawalki, co daje 44 minuty opowiesci, o samym panie Robbinsie nie wiedzialem nic wiecej, ze byl autorem big irona, ale jak widze to jest on jednym z najwiekszych outlawowoych grajkow hameryki, 40 lat kariery muzycznej, filmowanie na boku, a dodatkowo jeszcze sciganka w nascarze, brzmi jak wspolczesny kowboj, jesli chodzi o ten album, to polowa materialu to orginalne utwory Martiego, natomiast reszta to klasyczne opowiscie outlawowe, wiec piekna milosc, jeszcze piekniejsze smierci, prawo i bezprawie, mala ojczyzna i jej uwielbienie polaczone z zamilowaniem wolnosci, pewnie sie powtazam, ale nawet komercyjnie sprzedawane country w takim wydaniu ma w sobie cos wyjatkowego, czego nie mozna uslyszec juz na dzisiejszych nagraniach, jesli chodzi o czesc instrumentalna plyty, to jest ona minimalistyczna i nadaje uczucie, ze slucha sie prawdziwej opowiesci w barze czy ognisku na szlaku, w nagraniu bralo udzial tylko pieciu artystow, jesli liczyc takze gitarke Robbinsa, no i jeszcze tompall & the glaser brothers robili za chorki, ktore w tym gatunku nie ograniczaja sie jedynie do refrenow, minimalne instrumentale, urzekajacy wokal pana Martiego i opowiesci z bezdrozy, przepis na wyjatkowo sluchalny krazek, na plejke leca glownie orginalne kompozycje, wiec otwierajacy big iron, el paso i they are hanging me tonight, po takim seansie czlek czuje sie jak bumer i znowu chce sie odpalac fallouta, aby przemierzac nieuzytki wyjete spod prawa
great
I listen to a few of these songs regularly. Fantastic western sound.
Makes me want to get into some real, Old West shit!
Track 01 - 4/5 Track 02 - 3/5 Track 03 - 4/5 Track 04 - 3.5/5 Track 05 - 2.75/5 Track 06 - 2.5/5 Track 07 - 2/5 Track 08 - 3/5 Track 09 - 3/5 Track 10 - 4.25/5 Track 11 - 2.75/5 Track 12 - 3/5 Track 13 - 2/5 Track 14 - 1.75/5 Track 15 - 4.25/5 Overall: 3.5/5 Album Art: 5/5
good but there was an issue with the audio that spoilt it
-Hey, "Big Iron" is the meme song -Cool and nice little stories within the songs, even if they are basically all "I'm a cowboy, I ride a horse, oh no I got shot, and now I'm dead"
You Must Buy Your Wife At Least As Much Jewelry As You Buy Your Horse and Other Poems and Observations Humorous and Otherwise from the Life on the Range
Me if I was a cowboy
This one was fun in a bizarre way. The opener is amazing and there are some real gems along the way. It felt like a perfect example of what it was. There were several points where I felt like I’d heard something like it before. Not something I’d listen to every day but it was out of left field and enjoyable for the day
Shame the guy was such a prawn
Take that outlaw! Not what I would listen to by choice but I enjoyed this. Glad it included El Paso which I recognise after its excellent use in Breaking Bad.
i always loved this album - i have a few favorites on it. El Paso, Big Iron, The Hanging Tree
Really enjoyed listening to this riding on a train through the west.
I love the really classic western songs like Big Iron and The Master's Call, and the fact that Robbins wrote these is a bonus. Even the more pedestrian, country style tunes are carried by good storytelling, strong lead vocals and nice harmonies. My favourite 50s album so far!
Some of these tunes I’ve heard before. Really good
Trolling country
Very fun. I have to be in a certain mood to vibe so well with this, but today was the day.
Very good country album. Really enjoyed this, some tracks I had heard covers of before but not the originals. Real score around 3.75
For an album that is this old, it sure sounds terrific. Short, and at times funny stories are told by Marty Robbins here accompanied by twangy chords. Great fun.
теплый атмосферный кантри, вывозит за счёт гармоний и мелодий, драмки и баса почти нет, что логично. четкие вокальные линии и бэки
An album that goes well beyond the meme. Some amazing narrative lyricism + expertly minimal instrumentation makes for a rapturing listen even if country isn't your genre. The explicit religious themes of 'The Master's Call' dates/detracts the narrative and loses this LP a few points, but doesn't hamper the album enough to make it any less of a lyrical joyride
Made me feel like Billy the Kid
Liked it...different
The quality is a lot higher than I imagined it would be. My only tiny negative is that it largely sounds the same all the way through, but that’s just music from that era.
A country albums that isn’t awful
This is Western game music. It’s sort of nice to give something totally new a chance. Not sure how I’ll feel by the end of the journey but I’m excited to start
Good album
Ну йиииииха, че. Вполне себе приемлемая вестерн-музыка. Ощущение, что каждую песню уже слышал раньше, что, конечно, намекает на некоторую неоригинальность мелодий, они как будто существуют и циркулируют внутри непосредственно жанра, и любой желающий может ими воспользоваться. Но бля, доёбываться к альбому 59-го года? Да бог с ним, слушается прикольно, качество записи — моё почтение, думаю Тарантино мог бы спиздить пару песен в свои проекты отсюда (а может даже и спиздил, я хуй его). Обложка смешная. Вообще с чистой душой мог бы и оценку в районе 5 поставить, потому что ну не подъебаться особо, но это банально нечестно. Альбом тогда будет выше многих гораздо более пиздатых вещей, которые я собираюсь переслушивать. Поэтому ну 8/10, для своего времени и жанра думаю топ.
Не, ну для своего формата каеф вполне. Даже саунд приятный, хотя вроде вокал и акустическую гитару записать, шоб красиво - не особо мудрено. Треки сами атмосферу дают приятную вполне. И что важно, отдельно друг от друга что-то представляют по большей части, а не сливаются в единую кантри-вестерн массу. Правда, думаю, всяко быро заебёт, если репитом гонять. Но репитить же не обязательно, верно? То, шо спустя 62 года слушается адекватно - достойно увожения. Ну и настроем заряжает, взять Винчестер и отгонять коммунистов с данной белому человеку Богом земли.
This album does a great job of doing varriations on a theme. What some might consider a bit boring, frequently changes up with each song, there is a new variation. Playing to its ol' west music vibe, very much in the spirit of a more traditional country music, it also has nice blend of Spanish style guitar keeping it feeling just bit more fresh than expected.
Very good, need to listen again
loved it. sounds like elvis, even though the influence was probably the other way around.
Did not expect to enjoy this as much as I did, but it transported me to another place
This is some kind of shit my great grandma probably loved. I would definitely not just put this on, but would give anything to cruise around with her in her Thunderbird with this going on the radio.
Classic, listened as a kid with my grandpa
Ekan kappaleen aikana olin, että nyt on timanttista tavaraa. Kivaa länkkärimeininkiä. Vähän tunnelma latistui välillä, mutta hyvää menoa silti. Tykkään!
I wish I could hate this album because Marty Robbins is a racist little piss baby. Sadly, this album is great. All of these songs are these odd americana tragedies. “Big Iron” manages to relay the story of an arrogant gunslinger killed by a lawman; “Cool Water” is a prickly, off-kilter, upbeat song about a man dying of thirst; “They’re Hanging me Tonight” is a song about a jilted lover murdering his former lover and her current lover; “El Paso” is about a man who basically condemns himself to death by trying to win his love. It is amazing that Robbins can make songs so easy to sing along to that are all so comedically depressing. But, there is also something really poetic about how little this music is sanitized. There are exceptions, of course (and the exceptions are often the very worst parts of the album). But, it is a western album that can’t even manage to romanticize the western front. Talking about sanitization, “A Hundred and Sixty Acres” is so boring, a man just enjoying farming. It sounded like white bread tastes. “The Master’s Call” was also a really uneven song. It’s not that I hate the message, just that it feels tonally out of sync with the rest of the album. Plus, the narrator is pretty hard to identify with, he sounds like a real jackass so I’m none to partial to him getting a miracle and the cattle dying. I love the closer, it really seems to encapsulate the really comedic tragedy that marks so much of this album. All in all, I would say a 7/10.
Rocknroll classic, county
Best when it's rough and ready to fight
Está muy bien, pero es un poco repetitivo.
Big Iron has been stuck in my head all day
I gotta admit when this came up I was alittle but bummed, but holy shit was this great. Reminds me a lot of Elvis’ ballads or Roy Orbison. Stand out tracks: Big Iron, A Hundred and Sixty Acres, They’re Hanging Me Tonight, Cool Water, El Paso and Saddle Tramp.
Classic
Exactly what it says on the tin. Great Western tunes.
I'm into it.
Insanely iconic tunes from the Wild West, truly some storybook like sounds on this one, very very cowboy themed, red dead vibes in the best way, sometimes repetitive tho 4.4
Love it
Great to listen to this whole album after knowing El Paso as played by the Grateful Dead. This is a great collection of Cowboy Ballads, very fun to listen. Songs get somewhat repetitive, but I guess it kinda goes with the genre. Highlights: -Big Iron -They're Hangin Me Tonight -El Paso -The Master's Call
Gangster
I enjoyed this album a lot more than I thought I would. Cowboy music is actually pretty fun. Though most of the songs and in tragic death.
Wild an album like this used to be pop music.
Amazing, meme culture references and actually pretty good tunes
4* bit samey after a while but cool songs
Classic storytelling songs done right. Listening to some of these songs brought me back to the crappy barbecue restaurant we used to go to that had this album on the jukebox. Best track: El Paso
Good storytelling. Quite a specific country sound but nice guitar playing.
MARTY "FUCKING" ROBBINS!! Now this is an outlier from the typical album on here. If there's one critique I have of this whole 1001 thing is the lack of diversity in music genres. I'm glad they included this one. Big Iron, and El Paso are classics.
Easy listen, some interesting songs. Standout songs: Big Iron El Paso
Oli ihan letkeää kuunneltavaa. Tykkäsin levyn soundimaailmasta (akustisia soittimia), mutta levyhän on tehty vuonna 1959.
nice
Nice country cowboy music
It sounds like it would fit right in in a Fallout game.
Some charm to this but not really my thing. The Master's Call won me over the most
It's nice music, but almost all the songs sound the same to me. Also whining about women in almost every song annoying, but I think that's a problem with country music in general.
Nice, contains the classic "El Paso" (I dunno where I heard it but sounds awfully familiar). Very harmonious and unique.
Interesting how older country/western and hiphop/rap is more appealing to me than newer stuff in the genres. This one might be a four based on a couple of songs, but not quite feeling it today
Pretty fun western music, couple of tracks I really liked. But it's a bit too old-timey, I guess?
Actually a bit catching. 6/10
Big IRONNNNN BIG IRROONNNNN
Classic and cohesive, to a fault! Objectively, his voice is a bit of an odd fit with the songs’ themes, but somehow it still works.
Marty's voice is so pleasant. Enjoyed this. 3.5/5
War never changes
Notable Textzeile: I'm as sad as the willow That weeps in the valley Since you've gone Since you've gone from my arms Ich finde das sogar recht abwechslungsreich dafür, dass es auf keinen Fall Country als Musikstil verlassen darf. Auch das Storytelling und die Stimme sind gefällig, schön, angenehm. Ist das gefährlich, aufregend oder innovativ? Nö. Gefällt mir trotzdem durchaus und hat meine Laune gehoben. Dafür eine solide 3.
It is old...gives you western movie vibes, kind of nice but nothing you would listen too all day...