That Wild Wicked But Wonderful West

Released in 1964 on Starday Records, That Wild Wicked But Wonderful West captures Johnny Bond at a mature stage in his career as a stalwart of the country and western music scene. Bond, already established through his earlier hits and songwriting prowess, leaned into this collection to revisit the lore and rugged themes of the American West that had long been a staple of his repertoire. The album served as a bridge between the traditional cowboy songs he cherished and the evolving sounds of the mid-sixties country music industry, emphasizing a storytelling style that felt both nostalgic and quintessentially Starday.

The album's design and presentation reflect the no-nonsense, high-volume production aesthetic that defined Starday Records during this era. Under the direction of label head Don Pierce, the artwork was crafted to appeal to fans of classic western motifs, utilizing stark imagery that promised listeners an authentic experience of the frontier. Upon release, the record was received as a solid addition to the western genre, appreciated by Bond's dedicated fan base for its commitment to the lyrical narratives of the old West rather than the experimental shifts occurring elsewhere in Nashville.