McIntosh SESSIONS Volume 2: Pure Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash’s legendary artistry finds new life on McIntosh SESSIONS Volume 2: Pure Johnny Cash. This groundbreaking 18-track collaboration between Sun Records and McIntosh delivers an album of rare and seldom-heard versions of songs that bridge Cash’s timeless appeal with unparalleled high-fidelity performance.

This release offers a curated journey through the iconic “Man in Black’s” early Sun Records era, presenting his formative recordings with stunning clarity and depth. Each track has been meticulously remastered from the original analog tapes to preserve the raw authenticity of Cash’s voice and the warmth of his original sessions, now elevated with unmatched richness and precision.

Some of the analog tapes used in the making of Pure Johnny Cash.

Featuring rare cuts of classics like "Train of Love," "Ballad of a Teenage Queen," and "I Walk The Line," the album captures the essence of Cash’s groundbreaking years, offering a listening experience that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary. McIntosh, renowned for its audiophile-grade sound systems, has brought its technical mastery to the project, ensuring every copy delivers exceptional fidelity. From the resonant depth of Cash’s baritone to the twang of his acoustic guitar, every nuance has been captured with pristine detail, making this release a must-have for collectors and newcomers alike.

Pressed on 180-gram audiophile-grade vinyl at the less compressed 45 RPM speed, the album provides an immersive soundscape that recreates the intimate, live essence of Cash in the recording studio. Encased in a sleek, vintage-inspired design, the packaging pays homage to Cash’s roots while appealing to today’s vinyl enthusiasts.

This collaboration goes beyond a mere reissue – it’s a celebration of Johnny Cash’s enduring impact on music and culture. By pairing Sun Records’ iconic catalog with McIntosh’s uncompromising commitment to sound quality, the album stands as a testament to the timeless power of analog music in the digital age. With 18 tracks exploring themes of love, rebellion, and redemption, it reaffirms why Johnny Cash remains a beloved figure in American music history. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering his work for the first time, this release offers an unforgettable journey into the soul-stirring legacy of one of music’s greatest legends.

TRACKLIST

Side A

1. Come In Stranger (Take 1)
   
2. Ballad Of A Teenage Queen (Take 2)
   
3. Sugartime (Undubbed)
   
4. I Can’t Help It If I’m In Love With You (Undubbed)
   
5. Hey Good Lookin’ (Undubbed)
   

Side B

1. Train Of Love (Take 3)
   
2. Born To Lose (Undubbed)
   
3. Oh Lonesome Me (Undubbed)
   
4. Thanks A Lot (Undubbed)
   

Side C

1. Home Of The Blues (Undubbed)
   
2. I Could Never Be Ashamed Of You (Undubbed)
   
3. Guess Things Happen That Way (Undubbed)
   
4. You’re The Nearest Thing To Heaven (Undubbed)
   

Side D

1. One More Ride (Incomplete)
   
2. Cold, Cold Heart (Take 3)
   
3. Don’t Make Me Go (Take 3)
   
4. I Walk The Line (Take 3)
   
5. Down The Street To 301 (Take 1)
   

CREDITS

Producer: Sam Phillips

Mastering Engineer: Dave Gardner at DSG Mastering

Archival Engineer: Kelly Pribble at Iron Mountain

Compiled by: Chase Gregory

Archive Photos: Sarah Nekich

Art Direction: Chad Smith

Packaging: Erin Fligel & Tabitha Pugh

℗ © 2025 Sun Label Group, LLC.