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The word "genius" is grotesquely overused in today's context, but if ever the term fit a performer, that man was Steve Goodman. The anthology "No Big Surprise" is a brilliant sampling of just what made him so great: deep, serious songs, hilarious songs, and some of the BEST guitar playing ever heard. There is now an 800-page biography out on Steve Goodman. The price of that book and this anthology are about the same on eBay. I would recommend "No Big Surprise" over the book for a number of reasons. First and foremost, you get to hear the man sing and play, and that will tell you just WHY he is still, nearly a quarter of a century after his death, one of the most respected songwriters of American folk/country music. Secondly, the liner notes are provided by some of Steve's best friends, with the highlight being a loving essay penned by his widow, Nancy (who did not submit to an interview for the biography; and, having read the bio, I can say she made a very wise decision in passing up an "opportunity" to be part of that fiasco!) -- as opposed to a journalist who spends way too much time obsessing and speculating on things that did not need to be discussed because they were (and are) none of his or our business. Most importantly, you will hear alternative takes of songs, find some gems released for the first time (the duet with Jethro Burns on the Homer and Jethro classic "Don't Let the Stars Get in Your Eyeballs," where Goodman cannot stop laughing at the riotous parody, is worth the price of the anthology by itself!), and hear the original recordings of songs you know such as "City of New Orleans" and "Banana Republics" as well as Steve's live take on another one of his most popular compositions, "You Never Even Call Me By My Name." And, Cubs fans, take note: both "A Dying Cubs Fan's Last Request" and "Go Cubs Go" are featured, so you're covered whether the Cubbies win or lose. Discover Steve Goodman with this marvelous anthology and you, too, will be a fan. And that will certainly be "no big surprise."Read full review
Good. This CD contains the GO CUBS GO song which is played at Wrigley after every Cubs win. Steve Goodman has written a lot of songs, many performed by other well known artists. Too many songs to list for this box set but check the play lists and if you listen to a lot of music you will probably recognize a few.
I am listening to it now. wonderful.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Got it for my husband
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New