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Wednesday, January 12, 2011

Album Review: Johnny Cash - American IV: The Man Comes Around (2002)

Johnny Cash's final record whilst alive is proof that being past what many may perceive as being your vocal prime doesn't bar you from making a respectable album. And many music lovers, Cash fans and (some) critics all universally agree - American IV: The Man Comes Around is one of his most triumphant efforts. His voice may not be what it once was, and some may have to adapt to its gravelly, slightly depressed texture, but after listening to it from start to finish, I'm certainly pleased with my investment. And yes, Trent Reznor's "Hurt" is on this album, at #2. But don't forget about the rest of the record. "Bridge Over Troubled Water", originally by Simon & Garfunkel, still holds (albeit to a lesser degree) that emotional resonance that the original projected, and "Tear Stained Letter" is a reminder that Johnny can still sound like Johnny, even if, as I've mentioned 10,000 times before, his voice is no longer up to it. "The Man Comes Around" also proves that he can still write a song well. "Personal Jesus", "I Hung My Head" and "Danny Boy" all beg to be listened to. So having said that, go ahead and do so. A


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