AMG Review of Vintage Collections Series

Richie Unterberger
All Music Guide

This 20-track anthology of Wanda Jackson's early work is roughly equal to Rhino's Rockin' in the Country in value. Rockin' in the Country offers a considerably wider range, chronologically speaking. Vintage Collections Series, on the other hand, focuses on 1956-1961 recordings, affording greater depth for what is acknowledged as her most fertile period. Although it's issued on Capitol Nashville, it mixes rockabilly and straight country, including her biggest hits in each style ("Let's Have a Party," "Fujiyama Mama," "Right or Wrong") and some worthy obscurities. Those with an appetite for both rock & roll and country will find this the best compilation of her work; those who want just the rock & roll should look for the harder-to-find Rockin' with Wanda instead.