AMG Review of Missing Links, Vol. 1: Hillbilly Wolf

Richie Unterberger
All Music Guide

Unlike many early cult rock & roll greats, Link Wray recorded dozens upon dozens of sides that are good (and diverse) enough to make the search for his rarities worthwhile. This is the first volume of a three-part series of way-obscure sides from his early days, some previously unreleased. Some, indeed, aren't credited to Link himself, though he plays a prominent role on the tracks here credited to Lucky Wray (actually Link's brother Vern), Ray Vernon, the Wraymen, and Marvin Rainwater. Much of this is as unhoned as early rockabilly and instrumental rock got, the mid-'50s exposing Wray's hillbilly roots like raw nerve endings. It's a fine collection, worth getting if you have enough interest in Link to fish beyond a best-of compilation.