I think the CD is very good, and don't quite understand what you mean by "self-indulgent" Pete. If after all these years, an artist like Johnny hasn't earned the right to be self-indulgent, who has? Someone has to sing about blood and darkness, may as well be the 'Man in Black'. "Field of Diamonds" is excellent I think, and the duet with Merle Haggard is fun for me. Also, and there's no anger here Pete, aren't all artists self-indulgent?

I missed the 2nd "American" CD, but thought the 1st was so-so, a bit too slow for my taste throughout but I love "Drive On" and the simple version he does of "Tennessee Stud" and have added both to my own list of songs. But then, I've always liked Cash and the stories in his voice are what I listen for.

Clifton