One of the great honky-tonkers, Ray Price is remembered more for who was in his band (Roger Miller, Johnny Paycheck, Willie Nelson) than for his own recordings. Yet, his voice and the 4/4 shuffle beat he pioneered easily make him worthy of solo acclaim. This collection documents Price's progression from Hank Williams protege to honky-tonk hero. On early tracks, Price imitates Williams' plaintive vocal style; on later cuts, his voice leads him where it may. The reigns really begin to loosen on "Wasted Words," and by "Crazy Arms," he's running wild.

Brian Thomas