Kris Kristofferson – Kristofferson (Music On Vinyl, Orange Vinyl)

Kris Kristofferson's Kristofferson introduced his songwriting voice on record in 1970, after he had already become a crucial figure in country's shift away from the polished Nashville Sound. Written during the years when he was working odd jobs, including flying workers to Gulf oil platforms, these songs helped define a tougher, more introspective strain of country writing. Johnny Cash's support was central to that breakthrough: after inviting Kristofferson to appear with him at Newport in 1969, Cash helped open the door to Kristofferson's Monument deal.

What still stands out here is how fully formed the writing is. Songs such as Me and Bobby McGee, Help Me Make It Through the Night and Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down would soon become major hits for other artists, but Kristofferson's own versions show the directness and conversational detail that made them travel so far. The album also carries his political edge, from the satirical bite of “Blame It on the Stones” to the social commentary of “The Law Is for Protection of the People”.

This Music On Vinyl edition underlines why the album has lasted: it captures Kristofferson before the long run of fame, when his mix of plainspoken storytelling, countercultural streak and country craftsmanship was still arriving as something new. For anyone tracing the roots of outlaw country, this debut is less a footnote than a starting point.

Features

• 180g, Music On Vinyl, Orange Vinyl, Limited Numbered Edition
• Limited to 2000 individually numbered copies
• Heavy-duty sleeve with original liner notes by Johnny Cash

Reviews

• he brought a conviction to his vocals and a complete understanding of the nuances of the lyrics. - AllMusic.com