American VI // Johnny Cash

First things first- HAPPY 78th BIRTHDAY, MR. CASH! The unusual release date of AMERICAN VI Ain’t No Grave, February 26th, is a tribute to the birth of the Man in Black. It’s so hard to believe that this is it, all we’re ever going to hear from an American Icon.

The opening title track, “Ain’t No Grave”, is very dark and ominous sounding. The production of this traditional spiritual song is reminiscent of an earlier Johnny tune, “God’s Gonna Cut You Down”. It’s quite an appropriate beginning for this album, as Johnny sounds somewhat apprehensive regarding what’s to come. Next we have Sheryl Crow’s “Redemption Day”. What an honor for her to be included on this album! She has been around a long time by industry standards, but compared to legends like Johnny, Tom Paxton & Kris Kristofferson, she is but a mere babe! Johnny’s plaintive vocal highlights the questions that the lyrics ask us to ponder. Kris Kristofferson’s “For The Good Times” seems almost an odd choice. It’s kind of a break-up song, but in this instance, it’s so much more; “Don’t look so sad, I know it’s over”. Could you make me cry a little harder, Johnny? The answer to that is “Yes!”

Following that is the only Cash penned tune, “I Corinthians 15:55″. When the cello kicks in, it’s almost too much. This song is Cash’s way of telling us that he’ll be alright once he gets to Heaven. The 5th track, Tom Paxton’s “Can’t Help But Wonder Where I’m Bound,” is the point where the mood lightens a bit. The songs are on the same level as far as the sadness or happiness of the lyrics, but the arrangement and the vocal sound hopeful by the end of the track. It seems that Johnny isn’t questioning where he’s going at all. He knew. The message of the 6th track, “Satisfied Mind”, is probably one of the most important of the collection. Possessions will only do you so much good if nobody loves you. It’s almost as if Johnny has set you down in his lap, giving you fatherly advice. The way Johnny’s voice cracks when singing “I Don’t Hurt Anymore” is heart wrenching and beautiful. I can almost believe him, but the pain of his life & loves and his facing of the inevitable can all be heard by anyone who truly listens.

“Cool Water” is a warning for us to take care; care of the environment of our Mother Earth and our surroundings and our inner environs- our souls. It was written by Bob Nolan, a true cowboy known as the Poet Laureate of the West. It’s unfortunate that Nolan passed in the 80′s. I am sure he’d have been proud to have his words included in Johnny’s last message to the world. “Last Night I Had The Strangest Dream” was penned by Ed McCurdy. It has been recorded in 76 languages and became the official theme song of The Peace Corps. One last plea from the Man In Black for us to all cut the crap and learn how to co-exist in harmony.

Then, the last song… quite an odd choice, “Aloha Oe”. But, “Aloha” can mean either “Hello” or “Goodbye”. I believe this was Johnny’s way of telling his fans who loved him “Goodbye”, while at the same time telling the love of his life, June Carter Cash, “Hello Honey, I am on my way!” With the exception of the opening track, the production and simplicity of the arrangements adds poigniancy to the message from the Man In Black. Keeping in mind that he knew these were probably going to be his last recordings, he made sure he hit all of the important points; Keep the Faith, don’t be greedy, fighting is a waste of time, take care of the Earth, appreciate the small things and most of all, Love those around you with all you’ve got. In the end, all you truly leave behind is memories, and what a rich assortment of memories his musical legacy is made of.

We’ll miss you- Godspeed, Mr. Cash!

[By Mary Frakes]