Dirty Linen (4-5/96, p.75) - "...entertaining, if not trailblazing..."
Musician (1/96, p.94) - "...sound[s] particularly fresh because [it wasn't a] big hit...to begin with....cut a few months before the famous CARNEGIE HALL live album, features gems like `We Split The Blanket' and the irresistable ballad `Cinderella'..."
Buck Owens & His Buckaroos: Buck Owens (guitar); Doyle Holly, Jelly Sanders, Red Simpson (guitar); Don Rich (electric & acoustic guitars, fiddle); Tom Brumley (pedal steel guitar); Bob Morris (electric bass); Willie Cantu (drums).
Recorded at Capitol Recording Studios, Hollywood, California between May 4 and August 25, 1965. Originally released on Capitol (2443). Includes original liner notes by Chuck Owen and reissue liner notes by Rich Kienzle.
Buck in 1966--the year the Beatles & Stones were turning the pop world inside-out--you'd never know it from this Owens album (though the Beatles did cover his "Act Naturally"), which is the standard California honky-tonk. Though there's nothing wrong with this set--typically great, expressive singing from one of the best (and most under-rated) country voices and sharp picking--the songs are not nearly as hard-edged and distinctive as his earlier albums (also reissued on Sundazed). Hardcore Owens fans won't be disappointed--and as a bonus, Red Simpson guests on four songs!--but it doesn't approach the majesty of I DON'T CARE and TOGETHER AGAIN. Compared to most of what passes for country these days, it's still a good listen, though.