The songs from the WB era are the same recordings as on Songbook for the songs that are on Songbook. A most notable omission from Songbook - and a great song - is Minstrel Of The Dawn, so if you don't have the original album with that one, it is really a gem not to be missed. And there is Circle Of Steel as well.
Plus all of the songs from the UA era are rerecordings from June 1975 (9 tracks - 11 songs because two are medleys). There absolutely is a good reason to buy Gord's Gold because of that! Those rerecordings are really wonderful. They are 60s Lightfoot songs, delivered in 70s Lightfoot style, and the arrangements are much like he performs them today. We can start a lively debate about which version of the classics is "best", but the fact is that each recording is exquisite and can be enjoyed for its unique character. I heard all the songs first on GG (and some in concert); it was many years before I heard the "original" recordings. The GG versions of Canadian Railroad Trilogy and Song For A Winter's Night remain my favorites, but I am in awe of the originals too. (And, with Trilogy, there is also the live version on Sunday Concert).
Go for it.
------------------
Valerie Magee
Visit my GL web site at
gordonlightfoot.com