Mac Wiseman may not be the best-known country singer, but he was certainly was one of the most authentic. This fine collection by Rural Rhythm pieces together 25 of his best-known performances and compiles them in a stellar manner on
Best of: Essential Original Masters 25 Classics. This is the kind of introduction to an artist everyone can appreciate because, with the exception of his rockabilly sides, every period of his development is represented.
Wiseman's voice was a musical instrument, whether he was singing bluegrass ("Rovin' Gambler"), gospel ("Just Over in Glory Land"), hillbilly blues ("Sittin ' on top of the World") or straight-up traditional folk songs ("Midnight Special") The best tracks here -- though there are no weak ones -- capture the magic, drama and emotion in that voice. An excellent beginning. ~ Thom Jurek