Collectables' 2005 release
Down to Earth/High Cumberland Jubilee is a two-fer that contains
Jimmy Buffett's first two albums, both recorded in 1972 even if the latter wasn't released until 1976. While these are not among his most popular albums, they are among his most endearing, since the soft country-rock of these two LPs not only captures the hippie vibes of the early '70s, but these LPs are warm, tuneful, and relaxed in a way that
Buffett would never be again; these are
Jimmy Buffett records for country-rock fans who believe they don't like
Buffett. Yes, they may not be among his most popular work, but since they were recorded for an indie label, they are among his most widely circulated, being reissued in various forms in the years after
Buffett turned into a star. Collectables' 2005 release is about the best of its kind, since it serves the two albums straight up on a single CD and in good sound, making this the way to get these two early, unappreciated gems from
Buffett.
–
Stephen Thomas Erlewine, Rovi