Search - Del Shannon :: Something Old Something New

Middling Hank interpretations

Cromulus | Rome | 04/22/2007

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Although I'm a huge fan of Hank Williams I find two faults with the man's recordings and they are a: his band and b: the wretched Kaw-Liga.



Generally Hank's band (although they accounted themselves wonderfuly later on with Ray Price can oftentimes be found blowing clams all over Hank's recordings and Kaw Liga, typically included in many a greatest country hits collections is one grade A, piece of poopie pie in my opinion.



Because I love Hank but can't stand his band, I often seek out other artists' interpretations of his songs (Lefty's,Cash's, Jenning's, Locklin's, etc) which is what led me to this unexpected find and I'm happy to report that Del Shannon, best known for his hit songs "Runaway" and "Cry Myself to Sleep" does alright given his limited talents especially on "Long Gone Lonesome Blues" and "Cold Cold Heart". Neither are improvements on Hank's versions but I never expect improvement; If I did I would be let down nearly everytime.



Insofar Hank tributes go this one's alright. Certainly better than Hank Locklin's wretched "Hank Locklin Sings Hank Williams" (but don't let that keep you from getting his "send Me The Pillow You Dream On" 'cause that one smokes)."