Willie Nelson: Stardust
Original Release: 1978 Columbia Records
Reissue: 2018 Analogue Productions
Willie Nelson is a legend. I do not think his status as a country music artist is in question. He has also recorded a lot of music. Many solo projects and quite few collaborations. His library is extensive.
It is difficult to point to one album as a stand out. However, if pressed, Stardust may be it.
Love him or hate him, Stardust is one album in his library that everyone can appreciate. His vocals are in top form and the music is well done. That said, there are many vinyl pressings of Stardust. Some good, some great, some not so much🤮. Of the two best in our opinion (MOFI and Analogue Productions), we’d place the Analogue Productions version above the MOFI release.
Analogue Productions appears to have given the record the respect it is due by using analog master tapes and pressing it in a 45 rpm format. It has depth, separation, and the musicality that makes this recording an experience. Willie's vocals fill the room, as does the music. Analogue Productions enlisted the expertise and skill of Bernie Grundman and Quality Record Pressings to create a gem.
As Dennis Davis of Vinyl Reviews perfectly stated, "While more expensive, Analogue Productions' 45RPM reissue makes the piano seem more life-sized and restores all the overtones missing from the earlier reissues — all the while delivering enhanced percussion detail and tauter bass."
TRACK LIST
1. Stardust
2. Georgia on My Mind
3. Blue Skies
4. All of Me
5. Unchained Melody
6. September Song
7. On the Sunny Side of the Street
8. Moonlight in Vermont
9. Don't Get Around Much Anymore
10. Someone to Watch over Me
If you are looking for a great recording of Stardust, look to Analogue Productions’ version. You will not be disappointed! 💰
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