Omni Recording Corporation
ESSENTIAL "Sweet Memories"
Despite Johnny Cash's claim that she was "the greatest female country singer of them all," Anita Carter is a curious footnote in the annals of country-music history, famous more for her pedigree than her own artistry. Her mother, Maybelle Carter, and sister June were more acclaimed, which probably explains why Anita is now such an unsung artist in the ranks of classic country vocalists. She wasn't sassy like Loretta Lynn or melodramatic like Tammy Wynette. Carter's sumptuous soprano was ornate and pristine, sometimes to the point of sounding achingly ethereal. Not that you'd know this from her catalog - because none of it is in print. Until recently, there was nothing available on CD except for "Ring of Fire," a collection of her folk recordings, and a pricey box set, both on the German label Bear Family. That makes "Songbird," a new 28-track compilation of her mid-1960s and early-'70s recordings, such a welcome treat. In addition to solo performances, it features rarities she recorded with the Carter Sisters (which included Mother Maybelle, June, Anita, and their other sister, Helen) and duets with Waylon Jennings, Hank Snow, and Johnny Cash. "Songbird" is a reminder that Anita Carter, who passed away in 1999, is the great singer you never heard but shouldn't miss out on any longer. (Out now) -- JAMES REED
