Coal Miner’s Daughter is one of my favorite movies but I had low expectations for the soundtrack which I’ve been listening to and enjoying all morning. The film tells the rags to riches story of country music icon Loretta Lynn (Sissy Spacek) and was made with Lynn's blessing and participation. Sissy sings the songs and does a great job and Beverly D'Angelo, who plays Patsy Cline, also shines as both ladies breathe new life into country standards we know by heart. And that’s probably the best thing I can say about this album. If you love traditional country music but are burned out on the same old versions of the same old tunes then Coal Miner’s Daughter will put a smile on your face and remind you why these songs have stuck with so many for so long.
The best country songs tell about real life and real people but they also touch something deeper inside us. For me, there is a spiritual dimension to these songs which recognize the highs and lows that come with being human but also embrace our common humanity and reassure us we are not alone. This is music you can share with your kids and you will all be better for it. The film, which is just right for a family night around the television set, has many strong performances but Levon Helm steals the show as Loretta’s daddy, the coal miner. It's startling at first to hear Helm singing along to “Amazing Grace” at his own character's funeral but this fits nicely with the album's timeless quality and the movie's strong theme of family. Grade: A+
Listen to the album on Spotify...
Recommended Links:
No comments:
Post a Comment