Description
Sturgill Simpson – High Top Mountain – 180 Gram Coke Bottle Clear Vinyl Record
VMP 10th Anniversary Edition
Vinyl Me Please
10th anniversary edition of Sturgill’s debut album
Pressed on exclusive 180g coke bottle clear vinyl
Listening notes booklet by Andrew Winistorfer
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
High Top Mountain is the debut studio album by American country singer-songwriter Sturgill Simpson, released on June 11, 2013. The album showcases Simpson’s distinctive blend of traditional country music with modern sensibilities, drawing comparisons to outlaw country legends like Waylon Jennings, Merle Haggard, and Johnny Cash. It marked the arrival of a fresh voice in country music, one that honors its roots while pushing boundaries with sharp, introspective lyrics and a rugged, authentic sound.
Before releasing High Top Mountain, Sturgill Simpson had been a part of the alt-country band Sunday Valley, but this debut solo album allowed him to fully express his vision as an artist. The album was named after a cemetery near Simpson’s hometown of Jackson, Kentucky, symbolizing his deep connection to his Appalachian roots and the traditional country sound.
High Top Mountain was produced by Dave Cobb, a renowned producer known for his work with artists like Jason Isbell and Chris Stapleton, helping create a raw and organic sound that perfectly complements Simpson’s baritone voice and storytelling prowess.
High Top Mountain is an album that delves into themes of love, heartache, rebellion, and existential reflection, with Simpson’s songwriting taking center stage against a backdrop of traditional country instrumentation, including steel guitar, fiddle, and acoustic rhythms.
‘Life Ain’t Fair and the World Is Mean’ – This track kicks off the album with a honky-tonk sound, driven by twangy guitars and a sharp, rebellious attitude. Simpson reflects on his struggles to find success in the music industry, offering a critique of Nashville’s commercial country scene with witty lyrics and a defiant tone.
‘Railroad of Sin’ – A fast-paced, bluegrass-inflected track, ‘Railroad of Sin’ showcases Simpson’s vocal range and his knack for storytelling. The song speaks to the temptations and consequences of living a wild, reckless life, with driving instrumentation that mirrors its frenetic energy.
‘Water in a Well’ – A more reflective ballad, this song explores the theme of lost love with a tender, soulful delivery. The song’s melancholic lyrics, coupled with a haunting pedal steel guitar, create a sense of longing and emotional depth.
‘Sitting Here Without You’ – A classic heartbreak song, ‘Sitting Here Without You’ combines traditional country elements like fiddle and steel guitar with Simpson’s raw, emotive vocals. The song deals with themes of loneliness and regret, showing Simpson’s ability to tap into deep emotions.
‘You Can Have the Crown’ – One of the album’s standout tracks, ‘You Can Have the Crown’ features clever, self-deprecating lyrics about the struggles of making ends meet and chasing dreams. The upbeat tempo and catchy melody give the song a lively, honky-tonk feel.
‘Time After All’ – A slower, contemplative track, ‘Time After All’ reflects on the passage of time and the fleeting nature of life. Simpson’s lyrics, delivered with a soulful twang, create a bittersweet atmosphere, amplified by the mournful sound of the pedal steel guitar.
‘Hero’ – A deeply personal song, ‘Hero’ is a tribute to Simpson’s late grandfather, who played a significant role in his life. The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of admiration and loss, with a simple yet effective acoustic arrangement that highlights the emotional weight of the song.
‘Some Days’ – Another rebellious track, ‘Some Days’ features driving guitar riffs and a rock-infused country sound. The song expresses frustration with life’s challenges, capturing a sense of grit and determination in the face of adversity.
‘Old King Coal’ – This track serves as a reflection on Simpson’s Appalachian heritage, focusing on the coal mining industry and its impact on the region. The song’s lyrics pay tribute to the working-class struggles of those who labor in the mines, while the music evokes a traditional country sound with an edge.
‘I’d Have to Be Crazy’ – A cover of Willie Nelson’s classic song, Simpson’s version is heartfelt and sincere, showcasing his respect for the country music greats who came before him. His interpretation is understated, allowing the emotional depth of the lyrics to shine through.
High Top Mountain is steeped in the themes of classic country music—love, heartbreak, rebellion, and self-reflection—but it is also deeply personal, with Simpson weaving his own experiences and perspectives into each song. There is a strong sense of tradition in the album, yet Simpson’s approach is fresh and modern, often questioning the commercial aspects of mainstream country music while paying homage to its roots.
Musically, the album features a rich blend of traditional country instruments like pedal steel, fiddle, and acoustic guitar, with occasional flourishes of rock and bluegrass. Simpson’s deep, resonant voice and his ability to convey emotion make even the most straightforward country tunes feel authentic and heartfelt. Producer Dave Cobb’s minimalist production allows the rawness of the songs to come through, giving the album a timeless quality.
High Top Mountain received widespread acclaim from critics, particularly for its traditional country sound and Simpson’s compelling songwriting. Many praised Simpson’s willingness to stick to his roots and avoid the trappings of commercial country music, with comparisons frequently made to outlaw country legends like Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson.
Though it didn’t make a massive commercial splash upon its initial release, the album helped Simpson gain a loyal following among country and Americana fans, setting the stage for his breakthrough with his next album, ‘Metamodern Sounds in Country Music’ (2014). Over time, ‘High Top Mountain’ has been regarded as a strong debut that introduced the world to a unique and powerful voice in country music.
High Top Mountain is now seen as a crucial part of Sturgill Simpson’s artistic journey, showcasing his deep respect for traditional country music while hinting at the boundary-pushing style he would develop on subsequent albums. The album is beloved by fans of classic country and Americana for its raw, honest songwriting and its refusal to conform to mainstream country trends.
For listeners seeking authentic, soulful country music, High Top Mountain is an essential album that captures the spirit of traditional country while also forging a path forward for the genre. Simpson’s debut remains a testament to his talent as a songwriter and musician, as well as his dedication to the roots of country music.
Track Listing
Life Ain’t Fair And The World Is Mean
Railroad Of Sin
Water In A Well
Sitting Here Without You
The Storm
You Can Have The Crown
Time After All
Hero
Some Days
Old King Coal
Poor Rambler
I’d Have To Be Crazy
