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CD Review: Ragged Old Flag - Johnny Cash

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Reviewed by Matt Bjorke

With over 48 CDs in print, and over 50 million albums sold, it was inevitable that some of his "concept albums" would get re-issued on CD. "Ragged Old Flag" is one of those CDs. Released on December 11, 2001 as part of a celebration of Johnny Cash's upcoming 70th birthday, this CD is the first CD to feature songs written solely by Johnny Cash, which was unheard of when this album was originally released in 1974.

Containing all of the original album artwork, this CD is an entertaining journey back into 1974. What was amazing to me was how much most of these songs themes still seem to matter in today's world. That simply cannot be said about that many albums from that time although I think that the events from September 11th have something to do with it.

Ragged Old Flag
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Since the September 11th attacks in New York and Washington DC, the title track, "Ragged Old Flag," has received a steady amount radio airplay. I feel it is one of the strongest non-traditional patriotic songs I have ever heard.

"Don't Go Near The Water" is one of the message songs that were popular in the 1970s. This song talks about our nation's water supply being polluted by various people along its way to the sea.

"King Of The Hill" features the Oak Ridge Boys on the background vocals. Describing what happens to a man who wants to be the top dog. Makes reference to the coal mining town of Harlan, KY which has recently been described on CDs by Patty Loveless and Brad Paisley with "You'll Never Leave Harlan Alive."

"Lonesome To The Bone" talks about a man who realizes how lonesome his homeless life is. While a sad tale, lots of homeless men and women can relate to this song 32 years later.

"Good Morning Friend" features the Oak Ridge Boys again. Here Johnny is talking about God and how he feels with him in his life. A nice song that isn't too "preachy.

"I Am A Worried Man" tells a tale of a man who doesn't have a job and is worried how he's going to feed his baby and his bills. With all of the current economic problems and lay-offs, this song's theme still radiates today.

"What On Earth Will You Do (For Heaven's Sake)" featuring the Oak Ridge Boys yet again. The theme of this song is about how people help out others. With all of the problems in the world Johnny asks for us not to neglect all of the needy.

Song List:

  1. Ragged Old Flag
  2. Don't Go Near The Water
  3. All I Do Is Drive
  4. Southern Comfort
  5. King Of The Hill
  6. Pie In The Sky
  7. Lonesome To The Bone
  8. While I've Got It On My Mind
  9. Good Morning Friend
  10. I Am A Worried Man
  11. Please Don't Let Me Out
  12. What On Earth Will You Do (For Heaven's Sake)

All graphics © Shelly Fabian, except the album cover, used with permission of Sony Legacy.

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