This cd of Nitty Gritty Dirt Band songs is great for a starter collection. Of notable interest on this cd is Mr. Bojangles, which is presented here in the shorter "B" side version of the song. The song was issued on both sides of the original 45, one with a minute and a half long prelude, then the song kicks in. When you flip the 45 over you get this version, which actually starts differently than the version on the A side 45.

For a very nice cheap budget price, this cd is a near definitive overview of their early hits, and I recommend this to anyone. Some of the other great songs on this cd are Buy For Me The Rain, House At Pooh Corner, and Will The Circle Be Unbroken.

If you want to dig a little deeper into the band's music, other cds that I recommend are "Dirt, Silver and Gold" for more songs from this era (which includes the original A side version of Mr. Bojangles), and also "20 Years of Dirt" for "Dance Little Jean".

Again, the B side version of Mr. Bojangles is on this cd, and it is in fact hard to find on cd. This cd has the basic early hits by the group, and is a must for anyone who likes Mr. Bojangles and wants to hear more of their hits.

Since the band's beginnings in 1965, the members of The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band have continued to incorporate many elements of American music into their sound. Folk, jugband, country, bluegrass, blues, and pop are all part of the final blend. Group members all play a variety of instruments and have prided themselves in versatility.

This Curb release, "Nitty Gritty Band Greatest Hits", offers thirteen selected tracks from the group's early days through the first hits in the 1980's.

The 1960's are represented by the folk rock of their first single "Buy For Me The Rain".

There are three selections from the band's classic 1970 LP "Uncle Charlie and His Dog Teddy": The popular #9 hit single "Mr. Bojangles"; Michael Nesmith's "Some Of Shelly's Blues"; and Kenny Loggins' "House At Pooh Corner".

Included from "Will The Circle Be Unbroken"(another classic Dirt LP set)are tracks which were recorded with Grand Ole Opry members. The title tune features Mother Maybelle Carter. The banjo driven "Grand Ole Opry Song" does the same for Jimmy Martin, and Roy Acuff guests on "I Saw The Light".

Several favorites from the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band's concert set list are included:"Jambalaya" and "Battle Of New Orleans".

The late 70's recordings are represented by a cover of the Everly Brothers' classic "All I Have To Do Is Dream".

Finally, the collection is rounded out with the pop hits that brought the group into the 1980's. The sublime "American Dream (w/Linda Ronstadt)", a rocking "Fire In The Sky", and the soaring "Make A Little Magic(w/Nicolette Larson)" are all highlights.

It is hard to find good country music with all the new stuff comming out. But when I listen to the CD it brings back thoughts of being back on my farm with my family. I remember where I come from but more importantly makes me appreciate how things are now. It has a good feeling about the whole CD I really love it. Listening to the CD makes me feel like I am back in the glorious states once again.

Good collection of great songs..keeps the Nano lively..a must if you like this band..enjoy it while exercising on the bike..

An excellent cd by such a talented group of individuals. These guys deliver. The only thing I have to say is

Buy it, Buy It, BUY IT !!!