A weird idea for a collection, but a great one too – a set that brings together a batch of
train-themed tunes from the 60s, and uses the transportation narrative as a way to unlock ideas of personal freedom and social change! The "
train" here isn't just a gimmick – and instead focuses on the way that the mode of transportation helped open up new ideas and new vistas in the postwar years – a way of getting out, and getting past – served up here in a range of soul, blues, and other styles too! The set's got 25 tracks in all, put together with the usual top-shelf Ace Records approach – and titles include "Freedom Riders" by Harold Jackson, "Steam" by Caroline Day, "Number 9
Train" by Tarheel Slim, "Hurry Hurry Choo Choo" by Sharon Tandy, "Memphis
Train" by Rufus Thomas, "Won't Be Long" by Dusty Springfield, "The Downbound
Train" by Chuck Berry, "
Train To Skaville" by The Ethiopians, "Go Go
Train" by Jackie Pain, "Freedom
Train" by James Carr, "This
Train" by Sister Rosetta Tharpe, "Up The Line" by Little Walter, "Death
Train Blues" by Daddy Long Legs, "Stop That
Train" by Keith & Tex, "Country Line Special" by Cyril Davies, and "Big
Train" by Bobby Wayne.