![]() ![]() The softer, gentler melody at the beginning gives the lyrics a whole new level of gravitas to the point where it’s tear-inducing for yours truly as I envision myself in Simpson’s shoes. As much as I enjoy this version of “Oh Sarah” though, “Welcome to Earth” is hands down is among my top five favorites between the two volumes. This version of “Oh Sarah” sounds better to me because it has a more somber, confessional feel about it and this better suits the story of the song. ![]() I also think the new versions of both “Oh Sarah” and “Welcome to Earth (Pollywog)” are better than the originals. Great lyrics can be harder to appreciate with more aggressive production and rough enunciation. ![]() Honestly this take of this song made me see more of what people who didn’t like SOUND & FURY saw in it. The songwriting is given a chance to breathe. The latter part really makes this version stand out, as the song now feels more like a wise and sober reminder to enjoy life despite the hurdles. Yet in this version of the song I gain a new appreciation for the lyrics, as the clearer enunciation and quieter nature of the song really grip me. My memory of it is it’s a solid track that largely stands out for it’s thrashing guitars, but is overshadowed by other songs because it’s lyrics aren’t as strong. “Brace for Impact (Live a Little)” was the first single of A Sailor’s Guide to Earth, yet it was probably the least heralded track of the record. The closing of the song shows how bluegrass fast-picking can be just as mind-blowing as a rock band jamming out. This was a song I had my doubts about translating to bluegrass, but my concerns are immediately assuaged. 2 and it absolutely shreds as you expect from this frenetic song. The closer for A Sailor’s Guide to Earth “Call to Arms” opens Cuttin’ Grass, Vol. I’m not sure if this was deliberate of Simpson or just a nice coincidence, but this ends up making for a strongly connectable theme of cherishing and honoring loved ones. And then the final aspect that makes this album stand out is the tracks largely revolve around people who are deeply close to Simpson. While it didn’t take away from me enjoying the first album, it’s always a better listen with a more arranged track list. The second aspect is the track list for this is arranged in a deliberate manner, unlike the first volume that was in alphabetical order a la a mixtape. While I certainly didn’t complain about getting 20 songs from Simpson the first go-around, it’s admittedly harder to pick up an album and listen to it in one sitting with such a length in tracks. It’s a lot more concise at 12 songs and 40 minutes long. The first thing that stands out about this volume is the album length. So I expected an album at basically the same level with the second volume. 1 took myself and many by surprise for just how damn good it turned out to be. 2 (Cowboy Arms Sessions) as a surprise album release as he had originally intended for the first volume. He told the fans he would release two bluegrass albums if they raised enough money during Simpson’s charity run last summer and he delivered Cuttin’ Grass, Vol. Sturgill Simpson stayed true to his promise. ![]()
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