Search - Various :: Bob Dylan: Constructing The Legend

Released March 19, 1962, Bob Dylan's first album is a rather curious affair. The record contains only two original compositions, but more to the point, some of the songs cut at these sessions had not been performed live by him and never would be. Dylan stated in an interview in 2000 that he didn't want to reveal too much of himself. This new compilation looks at the collection of songs that Dylan chose to perform - and ultimately have Columbia Records release - as his debut LP, under a new light. Each of the numbers included on that 1962 record are here coupled with the original version or, in certain cases, with the version Bob was known to have drawn his inspiration from. The two aforementioned tracks for which Dylan received full composition credits - Talkin' New York Blues and Song To Woody - are each paired with the songs that inspired the originals and from which Dylan 'borrowed' the tunes. Featuring extensive booklet notes fully detailing the lines and connections between original and cover, this collection provides an entertaining and informative revival of a record which, in retrospect, has come to be appreciated as the catalyst of a new music, albeit a new music largely emanating from the pen and the performances of a single artist.