Josh Ritter: The Animal Years

V2 – 63881-27296-2

Format: CD, Album
Country: US
Released: 2006
Genre: Folk, Rock, World, & Country
Style: Folk, Folk Rock, Country Rock
[Tracklist]
01 Girl In The War (4:24)
02 Wolves (4:04)
03 Monster Ballads (4:06)
04 Lillian Egypt (3:24)
05 Idaho (3:52)
06 In The Dark (4:42)
07 One More Mouth (3:29)
08 Good Man (4:09)
09 Best For The Best (3:58)
10 Thin Blue Flame (9:39)
11 Here At The Right Time (3:40)
[Credits]
Josh Ritter (guitar/vocals) Sam Kassirer (organ/wurlitzer/piano/accordion/synthesizer) David Hingerty (drums/percussion) Zack Hickman (bass/guitar/mandolin/ukelele) Tim Bradshaw (guitar)
Cover Artwork: Jason Holley, Designer: Graphic Therapy, Engineers: Brandon Eggleston, Colin Studybaker and Greg Calbi
[Notes]
The Animal Years is the fourth studio album by American singer-songwriter Josh Ritter. The album was originally released in the UK on March 20, 2006, and in the United States on April 11, 2006. It was Ritter's first album released on V2 Records. A double-disc deluxe edition was released in Ireland on January 17, 2010, and in the US on February 15, 2011. In 2010, Ritter's band was given the name "The Royal City Band" (a reference to the song "Thin Blue Flame" from The Animal Years).

Creation's Journey: Native American Music

Smithsonian Folkways – SF40410

Format: CD, Compilation
Country: US
Released: 1994
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk
[Tracklist]
01 Prairie Chicken Dance: The Blackfoot Crossing Singers (2:00)
02 Scalp Dance / Victory Dance: Comanche Singers (4:08)
03 Two-Step: Inform Your Grandma: D.J. Nez (2:01)
04 Crown Dance: Ramsey Burnette (2:36)
05 Butterfly Dance: Peter Garcia and Carpio Trujillo (10:18)
06 New Women's Shuffle Dance: Young Nation Singers (6:28)
07 Constitution Breakdown: Lee Cremo Trio (2:11)
08 Sheehan's Reel / Pigeon on the Gate: Lee Cremo Trio (2:25)
09 A Beautiful Life: The Kingfisher Trio (2:06)
10 On the Jericho Road: The Kingfisher Trio (2:35)
11 Helana: Elena and Nicholas Charles and Joe Chief, Jr. (1:30)
12 Hello Song: Elena and Nicholas Charles and Joe Chief, Jr. (2:43)
13 Ladies Dance: Kwakiutl Singers (5:59)
14 Peace Dance: Kwakiutl Singers (2:21)
15 Sata Kallta: Comunidad Aymara de Laqaya (4:30)
16 Axawiri Imilla: Comunidad Aymara de Laqaya (6:56)
17 Son de la Danza de los Mixes: Zapotec Singers (4:32)
[Credits]
Producer: Charlotte Heth and Terence Winch, Designer: Roger Gorman, Mastering Engineer: David Glasser
[Notes]
Presented by the National Museum of the American Indian. From powwow music to Christian songs in Cherokee to Irish reels, Native peoples from the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and Bolivia present living traditions and crossovers to Euro-American musics. Recorded in New York City and Washington D.C., in 1992 and 1993. Package includes detailed notes in a beautifully illustrated booklet. An eloquent expression of enduring creativity, vibrant cultural life, and diverse artistry. 64 minutes. "A wondrous exhibition of Native American music." — TSC Entertainment News

Anthology of North American Indian and Eskimo Music

Folkways Records – FE 4541

Series: Ethnic Folkways Library
Format: 2 x Vinyl, LP, Compilation Country: US
Released: 1973
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk
[Tracklist] A01 Sun Dance: n/a (1:32)
A02 Love Song: n/a (0:57)
A03 Crazy Dog Song: Jim Low Horn, Mrs. Emil Wings, and Jack Low Horn (1:41)
A04 Buffalo Dance Song: Kenneth Anquoe, Jack Anquoe, and Nick Webster (1:03)
A05 Man's Love Song: Mark Evarts (0:54)
A06 Hand Game Song: William Peaychew (1:42)
A07 Prisoner's Song: William Burn Stick (2:20)
A08 World War II Song: George Nicotine (1:36)
A09 Warrior Death Song for Sitting Bull: n/a (2:00)
A10 Canvas Dance Song: Eneas Conko and Baptiste Pichette (1:40)
A11 Funeral Song: n/a (1:37)
A12 Suguaro Song: n/a (1:58)
A13 Peyote Song: First Song Cycle: Burton John and Roy James (1:26)
B01 Moonlight Song: n/a (2:09)
B02 Eagle Dance: n/a (2:59)
B03 Butterfly Dance: n/a (1:41)
B04 Lullaby: n/a (0:58)
B05 Rain Dance: n/a (1:47)
B06 Night Chant: n/a (1:43)
B07 Song of Happiness: Fort Wingate (N.M.) Indian School (1:09)
B08 Silversmith's Song: Ambrose Roan Horse (1:09)
B09 Corn Grinding Song: n/a (0:59)
B10 Wolf Song / Turtle Song / Turkey Song / Puppy Song : Irene Chalepah Poolaw (1:47)
B11 Church Song: n/a (1:03)
B12 Devil Dance, Crown Dance: n/a (2:57)
C01 Wolf Song: Billy Assu (2:05)
C02 Potlatch Song: Billy Assu (1:38)
C03 Hamatsa Song, Cedar Bark Dance: Billy Assu (1:12)
C04 War Song for Marriage: Billy Assu (1:50)
C05 Rabbit Dance Song: n/a (2:03)
C06 Cree Dance Song: n/a (2:24)
C07 Fiddle Dance Song: n/a (1:00)
C08 Bear Hunting Song: Sebastian McKenzie (1:44)
C09 Inviting in Dance Song: Otis Ahkivigak (0:47)
C10 His First Hunt: Kemukserar and Pangatkar (2:06)
C11 Hunting for Musk Ox: Kemukserar and Pangatkar (3:33)
D01 Corn Dance: Thomas Lewis (2:08)
D02 Stomp Dance: Huron Miller (1:57)
D03 Song of Welcome: Albert Yellow Thunder, Winslow White Eagle, and Blow Snake (1:19)
D04 Buffalo Feast Song: Albert Yellow Thunder, Winslow White Eagle, and Blow Snake (1:06)
D05 Morning Song: Albert Yellow Thunder, Winslow White Eagle, and Blow Snake (1:12)
D06 Song of the Unfaithful Woman: Albert Yellow Thunder, Winslow White Eagle, and Blow Snake (0:59)
D07 Hoot Owl Song: David, Oshawenimiki Kenosha (1:09)
D08 Oh Mary: Fred Lacasse (1:01)
D09 Catholic Hymn: Thomas Shalifoe (0:42)
D10 Calusa Corn Dance Song: Billy, Gatcayehola Stewart (1:32)
D11 Song of Removal: Susie Tiger and Billie Stewart (1:40)
D12 Fortynine Dance: Fred Lacasse (2:00)
D13 unidentified track: Fred Lacasse (1:03)
D14 As Long As The Grass Shall Grow: Peter La Farge (6:03)
[Credits]
Producer: Michael Asch, Designer: Ronald Clyne
[Notes]
This extensive collection of Native American music contains songs from across the North American continent: from the Plains Cree to the Inuit in the Arctic, from Northwest Coast Potlatch music to the sounds of the Southeastern Seminoles. Compiled from earlier Folkways recordings by anthropologist Michael I. Asch, the anthology focuses on the function rather than the form of Native American music. The 50 songs center on social themes such as courting, grieving, hunting, and religious ceremony, and represent the utilitarian musical tradition of Amerindian peoples.

Dave Van Ronk Sings

Folkways Records – FA 2383

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1961
Genre: Blues, Folk, World, & Country
Style: Country Blues, Folk
[Tracklist]
A1 Bed Bug Blues (2:46)
A2 Yas-Yas-Yas (2:09)
A3 Please See That My Grave Is Kept Clean (2:56)
A4 Tell Old Bill (4:24)
A5 Georgie And The IRT (3:35)
A6 Hesitation Blues (2:36)
A7 Hootchy Kootchy Man (3:15)
A8 Sweet Substitute (2:36)
B1 Dink's Song (3:46)
B2 River Come Down (3:47)
B3 Just A Closer Walk With Thee (3:04)
B4 Come Back Baby (3:55)
B5 Spike Driver's Moan (3:17)
B6 Standing By My Window (5:00)
B7 Willie The Weeper (3:01)
[Credits]
Dave Van Ronk (guitar/vocals)
Artwork: R. Von Schmidt, Liner Notes: Eric Von Schmidt
[Notes]
Born in Brooklyn in 1936, Dave Van Ronk was Bob Dylan's "first New York guru," writes Dylan's biographer Robert Shelton. "Dave Van Ronk was the musical mayor of MacDougal Street," Shelton continues, "and...a walking museum of the blues." This album features fifteen songs, including a parody of "Nearer My God to Thee": "Georgie and the IRT.

Old Time North Carolina Mountain Music with David, Bill and Billie Ray Johnson

Folkways Records – FTS 31105

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1985
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Country
[Tracklist]
A1 Knoxville Girl (4:48)
A2 Rueben (2:57)
A3 The Wreck Of The Old 97 (2:40)
A4 Roll On Buddy (Nine Pound Hammer) (2:27)
A5 Poor Ellen Smith (2:20)
A6 Plossum Blowed His Horn (2:54)
A7 Banks Of The Ohio (2:44)
B1 Jimmy Sutton (2:03)
B2 Down In The Willow Garden (Rose Connolly) (2:33)
B3 Cumberland Gap (2:30)
B4 Going Down The Road Feeling Bad (2:29)
B5 Sugar Babe (2:05)
B6 Pretty Polly (2:48)
B7 Southwood Mountain (1:58)
[Credits]
Bill Johnson (banjo) David Johnson (fiddle/vocals) Billie Ray Johnson (guitar/vocals)
Producer: John R. Craig, Photographer: Gilbert Blackburn, Recorder: Marshall Cravan
{Notes}
Born in North Carolina in 1911, Bill Johnson started playing the banjo at the age of eight. With his son Billie Ray on guitar and grandson David on fiddle, he leads three generations of talented mountain musicians in this collection of murder ballads and folk songs. All the instrumental songs are what Johnson calls "old tunes." They have been handed down through the generations and can still be heard on front porches and at dances in the Western North Carolina Mountains. Vocal tunes, including "Knoxville Girl" and "Poor Ellen Smith," are also featured.

The Carter Family: Greatest Hits 1927-1934

Fabulous Records – FABCD146

Format: CD, Compilation
Country: UK
Released: 2011
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk & Country
[Tracklist]
01 Wildwood Flower (3:14)
02 My Clinch Mountain Home (3:12)
03 The Foggy Mountain Top (3:00)
04 Keep On The Sunnyside (2:54)
05 I'm Thinking Tonight Of My Blues Eyes (3:03)
06 Jimmy Brown The Newsboy (2:34)
07 John Hardy Was A Desperate Little Man (2:57)
08 Lula Wall (2:53)
09 Wabash Cannonball (3:00)
10 Worried Man Blues (2:46)
11 Carters Blues (3:00)
12 Diamonds In The Rough (3:25)
13 Church In The Wildwood (3:15)
14 Lonesome Pine Special (3:00)
15 The Cannonball (3:00)
16 I Never Will Marry (2:38)
17 Lonesome Valley (2:42)
18 Sweet Fern (Sweet Fern) (3:09)
[Credits]
Sara Carter (guitar/autoharp/vocals) Maybelle Carter (guitar/vocals) A.P. Carter (vocals)
[Notes]
Fans looking for more than ASV/Living Era's Wildwood Flower collection but scared off by Bear Family's massive 12-disc box could comfortably pick up this five-disc budget compilation. At 126 songs, it covers all of their RCA Victor recordings in chronological order, omitting only alternate takes. The remastering isn't necessarily better than other Carter Family issues -- rather than clean up the crackle, the engineers have simply boosted the sound level, and while that does bring out some nuances, the ever-present hiss is louder than usual. That and the scanty liner notes mean that casual fans could probably do perfectly well with Wildwood Flower, but this music is going to be an outstanding addition to any collection, especially at a price this low. -- AllMusic Review by Jim Smi

Gillian Welch: The Harrow & The Harvest

Acony Records – 805147110939

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 2011
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Country, Folk
[Tracklist]
A1 Scarlet Town (3:38)
A2 Dark Turn of Mind (4:07)
A3 The Way It Will Be (4:47)
A4 The Way It Goes (4:01)
A5 Tennessee (6:35)
B1 Down Along the Dixie Line (4:49)
B2 Six White Horses (3:38)
B3 Hard Times (4:52)
B4 Silver Dagger (3:23)
B5 The Way the Whole Thing Ends (6:11)
[Credits]
Gillian Welch (guitar/banjo/harmonica/vocals) David Rawlings (guitar/banjo/harmonica/vocals)
Producer: David Rawlings, Designer: John Dyer Baizley, Photographer: Mark Seliger, Engineers: Matt Andrews and Stephen Marcussen
[Notes]
The eight years since the release of 2003's Soul Journey marked the longest period of time between album releases for Welch. In explaining the relatively long recording absence, Welch said, "The sad truth is we never liked anything enough to put it out, which is not a pleasant place to be." She added, "over the course of that time that we were quiet we probably had enough songs to put out two or three records. Actually we made a few tentative steps at trying to record, but inevitably the heart would go out of it when we realised that we simply didn't like the material enough to go on with it." Welch frequently performed the song "The Way It Will Be" in years prior to the release of the album. Welch explains that this tense time period inspired the album title: "Our songcraft slipped and I really don't know why. It's not uncommon. It's something that happens to writers. It's the deepest frustration we have come through, hence the album title." The writing process involved "this endless back and forth between the two of us," Welch said, stating that "It’s our most intertwined, co-authored, jointly-composed album." John Dyer Baizley provided artwork for the album.

Classic Blues from Smithsonian Folkways, Vol. 2

Smithsonian Folkways – SFW40148

Series: Smithsonian Folkways Classic Series
Format: CD, Compilation
Country: US
Released: 2003
Genre: Blues, Folk, World, & Country
Style: Blues
[Tracklist]
01 Dark Road: Brownie McGhee and Sonny Terry (2:46)
02 Step It Up and Go: Warner Williams (2:38)
03 It Was Early One Morning: Lead Belly (2:27)
04 Blues - Until My Baby Comes Home: Nora Lee King and Mary Lou Williams (2:55)
05 That's No Way to Do: Pink Anderson (2:25)
06 Farro Street Jive: Little Brother Montgomery (2:18)
07 I Ain't Gonna Cry No More (Depot Blues): Son House (2:59)
08 Graveyard Blues: Roscoe Holcomb (3:02)
09 44 Blues: Roosevelt Sykes (2:45)
10 Big Fat Mama: David "Honeyboy" Edwards (2:59)
11 Make Me a Pallet on Your Floor: Lucinda Williams (3:53)
12 Lieutenant Blues: Thomas McFarland (Barrelhouse Buck) (2:40)
13 The Woman Is Killing Me: Sonny Terry and Friends (2:26)
14 Little Drops of Water: Edith North Johnson and Henry Brown (3:09)
15 When Things Go Wrong (It Hurts Me Too): Big Bill Broonzy (3:01)
16 Poor Boy a Long, Long Way From Home: Cat-Iron (2:47)
17 My Jack Don't Drink Water No More: Shortstuff Macon (3:44)
18 'Way Behind the Sun: Barbara Dane (3:51)
19 Tell Me, Baby: Lightnin' Hopkins (2:36)
20 Just A Dream: Memphis Slim (4:15)
21 Jelly Jelly: Josh White (2:29)
22 Down in the Alley: Chambers Brothers (3:07)
[Credits]
Compiler and Liner Notes: Barry Lee Pearson, Photographer: Pat Terry, Mastering Engineer: Pete Reiniger
[Notes]
For over a century, the blues have continually forged new musical alliances and pushed against boundaries, reaping rich harvests from infusions of diversity, innovation and vitality. With a spark of rock, or a nod to jazz, the blues stay true in spirit and perpetual in their ability to strike a common chord with listeners. On Classic Blues Vol. 2, Lucinda Williams, Roscoe Holcomb and Nora Lee King stand alongside all-time blues greats such as Lead Belly, Son House, and Lightnin' Hopkins. No matter if you prefer your blues raw, acoustic, electric, solo or from a live band, a jukebox or a jook joint, as the blues poet J. Williamsonce put it, "The blues is good news. Pass it on." Extensive notes. 22 tracks. 64 minutes.

This Ain't No Mouse Music!

Arhoolie Records - ARH00545

Format: 2 x CD, Soundtrack, Compilation
Country: US
Released: 2014
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, Bluegrass, Blues, Cajun & Zydeco, Countr, Jazz & Ragtime, Latin
[Disk One]
01 Bald Headed Woman: Lightnin' Hopkins (3:50)
02 Barbershop Rhythm: Wade Walton & R.C. Smith (2:26)
03 I Want To Live and Love: Maddox Brothers & Rose (2:07)
04 I'm Working On a Building: Rev. Louis Overstreet (6:59)
05 Tom Moore's Farm: Mance Lipscomb (3:29)
06 Lady Luck: Mercy Dee Walton (2:48)
07 Mercury Blues (Mercury Boogie): K.C. Douglas (2:39)
08 Write Me a Few of Your Lines: Fred McDowell (3:37)
09 Wade in the Water: Big Mama Thornton (2:54)
10 Sloppy Drunk Blues: Big Joe Williams (2:49)
11 I Feel Like I'm Fixin' to Die Rag: Country Joe McDonald (2:58)
12 Mama Don't Allow: George Lewis (3:03)
13 The Shiner Song: Joe Patek's Orchestra (2:42)
14 Calinda (La Reel de Barza): Michael Doucet & Dennis McGee (3:21)
15 Malinda: Canray Fontenot (1:06)
16 Bosco Stomp: Michael Doucet and David Doucet (2:57)
17 Burgundy Street Blues: Sammy Rimington & His Hot Six (4:14)
18 Creole Belles: New Orleans Ragtime Orchestra (3:03)
19 Over the Waves: Sammy Rimington & the Creole All Stars (4:32)
20 Big Fat Woman: Treme Brass Band & Henry Youngblood (2:19)
[Disk Two]
01 Fiddle Two-Step: Wilson & Joel Savoy (3:11)
02 Two-Step de Amede: The Savoy Family Band (4:32)
03 Louisiana Blues: Clifton Chenier (5:03)
04 Bye Bye Mo Neg: Clifton Chenier (5:37)
05 Los Ojos de Pancha: Los Alegres de Terán (2:02)
06 Nuestro Amor: Santiago Jiménez, Jr. (2:05)
07 Un Mojado Sin Licencia (A Wetbaack Without a License): Flaco Jiménez (3:39)
08 Mal Hombre: Lydia Mendoza (3:30)
09 En Cada Vida Hay Un Momento: Leo Garza (4:33)
10 La Tumba Sera El Final: Flaco Jimenez y Tomás Ortíz (2:20)
11 Let's Have a Ball: Ry Cooder & Flaco Jimenez (6:06)
12 Flor de Capomo: Los Cenzontles (2:26)
13 Golden Slippers: Whitetop Mountain Band Jam (2:12)
14 Ruby: No Speed Limit (5:54)
15 Grayson County Blues: No Speed Limit (3:36)
16 Pine Grove Blues: Pine Leaf Boys (4:40)
17 Oh, Franklin!: Cajun Jam (6:20)
18 Just a Little While / When the Saints Go Marching In: The Treme Brass Band (4:28)
[Credits]
Producer and Liner Notes: Chris Strachwitz and Adam Machado. Producer and Editor: Tom Diamant, Recorder: David Silberberg, Engineer: Nino Moschella
[Notes]
"This Ain’t No Mouse Music!" is the companion soundtrack to the documentary film of the same name. Released in 2014, the film followed Arhoolie founder Chris Strachwitz as he revisited many of the singers and musicians whom he had recorded over a 50-year period. Arhoolie, a slang expression for "field holler," focused on American roots music ranging from country blues to Cajun and zydeco, Tex-Mex and norteño, bluegrass, and New Orleans jazz. The music in this 2-CD soundtrack is only a small sample of what Strachwitz recorded or produced.

Folk Visions and Voices: Traditional Music and Song in Northern Georgia Volume One

Ethnic Folkways Records – FE 34161

Format:Vinyl, LP, Compilation
Country: US
Released: 1984
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk
[Tracklist]
A01 I'm Going to Georgia: Berthie Rogers, Paralee McCloud, and Lawrence Eller (3:05)
A02 The Little Ship (The Golden Vanity)(Child No. 286): Paralee McCloud (2:15)
A03 Cindy in the Summertime: Lawrence and Vaughn Eller (2:19)
A04 Snowbird: Ross Brown and Howard Cunningham (0:50)
A05 Don't Go Ridin' Down That Old Texas Trail: Lawrence Eller, Vaughn Eller, and Ross Brown (2:06)
A06 What You Gonna Name That Pretty Baby?: Leatha Eller (2:41)
A07 The Famous Wedding: Maude Thacker (1:27)
A08 Once I Had an Old Grey Mare: Maude Thacker (1:40)
A09 As I Walked Out One Morning in Spring: W. Guy Bruce (1:13)
A10 The Lily of the West: W. Guy Bruce (2:43)
A11 Shout Lulu: W. Guy Bruce (2:42)
B01 Walk with Me: Brady "Doc" and Lucy Barnes (2:25)
B02 Dead and Gone: Brady "Doc" Barnes (2:06)
B03 My Number Will Be Changed: Naomi Bradford (3:48)
B04 Soon, One Mornin': Willie Gresham (5:02)
B05 Brother, You Ought T've Been There: Nathaniel Mitchell, Fleeta Mitchell, and Brady "Doc" Barnes (1:34)
B06 I Don't Know How We Made It Over: Brown's Chapel Choir, Imogene Riggens, and Bea Robinson (2:57)
B07 No Room at the Hotel: Otha Cooper (3:53)
B08 Welcome Home: Brown's Chapel Choir, Imogene Riggens, and Bea Robinson (3:30)
[Credits]
Producer: Art Rosenbaum, Designer: Ronald Clyne, Photographer: Margo Newmark Rosenbaum
[Notes]
Beginning in 1977, renowned folklorist Art Rosenbaum traveled around northern Georgia making field recordings of songs learned from the oral tradition. The outcome was a two-volume anthology and a book by the same title. The first half of Volume 1 features "early mountain songs, ballads and tunes" ranging from ancient British ballads to more recent breakdowns and love songs. The second half presents "black religious singing" (traditional spirituals), some of which are recorded in a local church. Rosenbaum's liner notes provide detailed information about the singers and each song, as well as complete lyrics and photographs of the musicians and singers.

Virginia Traditions: Native Virginia Ballads and Songs

BRI Records – BRI 004

Series: Virginia Traditions
Format: Vinyl, LP, Compilation
Country: US
Released: 1981
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, Country, & Bluegrass
[Tracklist]
A1 Claude Allen: Hobart Smith (3:33)
A2 Sidney Allen: Spence Moore (1:59)
A3 Poor Goins: James Taylor Adams and Finley Adams (3:59)
A4 The Vance Song: Branch W. Higgins (2:16)
A5 The Fate of Dewey Lee: Spence Moore (2:59)
A6 The Fate of Talmadge Osborne: Ernest V. Stoneman (3:06)
A7 The Wreck of the 1256: Vernon Dalhart (4:16)
A8 The Wreck of the Old 97: Kelly Harrell and Henry Whitter (3:49)
B1 The Life and Death of Charlie Poole: Ted Prillaman (2:25)
B2 The Story of Freeda Bolt: Floyd County Ramblers (3:41)
B3 The Ballad of Caty Sage: J.C. Pierce (3:43)
B4 The Cyclone of Rye Cove: The Carter Family (2:04)
B5 The Story of the Flood: The Stanley Brothers (3:12)
B6 The Pinnacle Mountain Silver Mine: Helen Cockram (2:08)
B7 New River Song: Jim and Artie Marshall (2:59)
B8 Highway 52: Little "Doc" Raymond and The Coleman Pardners (2:54)
B9 The Ballad of Fancy Gap: Jim and Artie Marshall (4:51)
[Credits]
Liner Notes: Doug DeNatale, Editor: Linda Linnartz, Recorders: Alan Lomax, Herbert Halpert, Elizabeth Lomax and Bobby Patterson, Engineers: Doug DeNatale and Glen Hinson
[Notes]
Few states in this country can boast of more diverse folkways than Virginia. Many of the material objects—such as barns, tools, and furniture—reflect the traditions that shaped the lives of its earliest settlers and the generations of Virginians who followed. The Commonwealth’s performance traditions of songs, tunes, and tales also tell of a shared heritage involving all classes of people in every facet of life. Because traditions naturally change over time, the documentation of Virginia folk culture is an ongoing process essential to our understanding of the past, present, and future. By recording the folkways of Virginia, the Blue Ridge Institute of Ferrum College and its BRI Record label strive to foster a greater appreciation of our folk roots through an array of interpretive programs. From murders to train wrecks to natural disasters, the ballads on this recording concern events and people of Appalachian Virginia. Performance styles range from traditional unaccompanied singing to sophisticated modern bluegrass.

Michael Cleveland: Tall Fiddler

Compass Records – COM4737

Format: CD, Album
Country: US
Released: August 23, 2019
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Bluegrass
[Tracklist]
01 Arkansas: Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper (02:34)
02 High Lonesome Sound: The Travelin' McCourys (03:36)
03 20 Cent Cotton And 90 Cent Meat: Michael Cleveland (03:31)
04 Beauty Of My Dreams: Del McCoury, Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper (02:35)
05 5-String Swing: Michael Cleveland (03:26)
06 Old Time River Man: Michael Cleveland (04:52)
07 Tennessee Plates: Michael Cleveland (03:28)
08 Tall Fiddler: Tommy Emmanuel, Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper (03:14)
09 Tarnation: Béla Fleck (05:56)
10 Son Of A Ramblin' Man: Dan Tyminski, Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper (03:07)
11 Mountain Heartache: Dan Tyminski, Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper (03:45)
12 Me And Helen: Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper (03:56)
13 Lazy Katie: Larry Bales (03:19)
[Credits]
Producers: Jeff White and Sean Sullivan
[Notes]
This album has been something I've wanted to do for a very long time. I've been thinking for a while that it would be awesome to have my band, Flamekeeper, collaborate with some of my musical heroes, and just wondered what it would sound like. I knew it was going to be awesome about an hour into the first day in the studio. Tommy Emmanuel came in to record 'Tall Fiddler' and about an hour after he got there, we had the track. Also, I had the honor of co-writing a song with Béla Fleck, recording a Memphis rock song that talks about stealing one of Elvis's Cadillacs… had so much fun along the way. Thanks to everyone who was involved in the making of this album and especially to my co-producers, Jeff White and Sean Sullivan, for making this dream a reality. — Michael Cleveland

Strange Creek Singers

Arhoolie Records – 9003

Format: CD, Album, Reissue
Country: US
Released: 1997
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Bluegrass, Appalachian Music, Country, Hillbilly
[Tracklist]
01 When I Can Read My Titles Clear (2:13)
02 In the Pines (3:48)
03 Sunny Side of Life (2:19)
04 Poor Old Dirt Farmer (2:18)
05 Sally Ann (1:22)
06 I Truly Understand That You Love Another Man (2:29)
07 Old Black Choo Choo (2:39)
08 Today Has Been a Lonesome Day (3:16)
09 No Never No (4:11)
10 New River Train (2:55)
11 Get Acquainted Waltz (2:38)
12 Will the Circle Be Unbroken (3:41)
13 Black Lung (3:27)
14 Difficult Run (Pt. 2) (2:48)
[Credits]
Mike Seeger (mandolin/fiddle/banjo/guitar/autoharp/vocals) Hazel Dickens (bass/vocals) Tracy Schwarz (fiddle/guitar/dobro/vocals) Alice Gerrard (guitar/vocals) Lamar Grier (banjo)
Producer: Mike Seeger and Chris Strachwitz, Liner Notes: Richard K. Spottswood, Designer: Dix Bruce, Tom Diamant and Wayne Pope, Photographer: Betsy Siggins
[Notes]
Composed of Mike Seeger, Tracy Schwarz (two-thirds of the New Lost City Ramblers), Hazel Dickens, Alice Gerrard, and Lamar Grier, the Strange Creek Singers bring new life to hymnals and old-time country classics. Utilizing a combination of instrumental and vocal talent, the singers perform solo as well as in duets, trios, and quartets to bring a traditional country voice into the cities where four of them grew up. Of particular note is the song “Black Lung,” written and sung by Hazel Dickens and dedicated to her brothers, who were coal miners.

Ragtime2: The Country- Mandolins, Fiddles, and Guitars

RBF Records – RBF 18

Format: Vinyl, LP, Compilation
Country: US
Released: 1971
Genre: Ragtime, World, & Country
Style: Ragtime & Old Time
[Tracklist]
A1 Dallas Rag: The Dallas String Band (2:55)
A2 No Use Workin' So Hard: The Carolina Tar Heels (3:09)
A3 Old Weary Blues: Jesse Young's Tennessee Band (3:10)
A4 Atlanta Rag: Cow Cow Davenport (3:09)
A5 Hungry Man's Scuffle: Walter Roland and Lucille Bogan (2:47)
A6 Downtown Blues: Frank Stokes (3:13)
A7 They Go Wild Simply Wild Over Me: The Leake County Revelers (2:59)
B1 Hale's Rag: Theron Hale & Daughters (2:49)
B2 Laughing Rag: Sam Moore and Horace Davis (2:45)
B3 Lindy: The Proximity String Quartet (2:57)
B4 Kansas City Dog Walk: Charlie Turner (2:59)
B5 Ozark Rag: The East Texas Serenaders (3:09)
B6 Dill Pickles Rag: The Kessinger Brothers (3:17)
B7 Rag Mama Rag: Blind Boy Fuller, Gary Davis, and Bull City Red (3:07)
[Credits]
Dallas String Band: Marco Washington (bass/cello) Sam Harris (guitar) Coley Jones (mandolin), Carolina Tar Heels: Dock Walsh (banjo) Tom Ashley (guitar) Garley Foster (harmonica), Cow Cow Davenport (piano), Walter Roland (piano) Lucille Bogan (speech), Frank Stokes (guitar/vocals), Leake County Revelers: Dallas "Casey" Jones (guitar/vocals) Jim "Smoky" Wolverton (banjo) Will Gilmer (fiddle) R. O. Mosley (mandolin banjo), Theron Hale (fiddle) Elizabeth Hale (mandolin) Mamie Ruth Hale (piano), Horace Davis (harp guitar) Sam Moore (steel guitar), Charlie Turner (12 string guitar), Blind Boy Fuller (guitar) Gary Davis (guitar) Bull City Red (washboard)
Compiled & Annotated by Samuel Charters, Designer: Ronald Clyne
[Notes]
This collection features country ragtime from 1917 to 1935—a genre that mixes the syncopation of African-American rhythms with the melodic structure of European dance music. As these recordings demonstrate, musicians created different mixtures of these elements: some rags sound more like the blues, while others are closer to European quadrilles.

Hazel Dickens and Alice Gerrard – Won't You Come & Sing For Me?

Folkways Records – FTS 31034

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album, Reissue
Country: US
Released: 1978
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Bluegrass
[Tracklist]
A1 I Just Got Wise (2:21)
A2 Please Mommy Please Stay Home with Me (3:05)
A3 They're at Rest Together (3:21)
A4 Sugar Tree Stomp (2:03)
A5 Memories of Mother & Dad (2:34)
A6 Train on the island (1:38)
B1 Won't You Come & Sing for Me (2:39)
B2 A Tiny Broken Heart (2:58)
B3 A Distant Land to Roam (2:56)
B4 John Henry (1:46)
B5 Weary Lonesome Blues (2:39)
B6 The One I Love is Gone (3:05)
[Credits]
Hazel Dickens (bass/vocals) Alice Gerrard (guitar/vocals) Fred Weisz (mandolin/bass vocals) David Grisman (guitar/baritone vocals) Lamar Grier (banjo) Billy Baker (fiddle) Mike Seeger (guitar)
[Notes]
Alice Gerrard's voice lifts and rises from the bottomless. And Hazel Dickens' vocal joins her in the chorus to affirm a unity through loneliness. Dickens, raised poor in the coal mining territory of West Virginia, and Gerrard, a classically trained singer approaching music from a rather more academic angle, were separated by a decade in age when they began running into each other in the lively folk scenes of Baltimore and Washington, D.C., in the '60s. They found that their voices meshed well and that they shared an eclectic approach to the music that they enjoyed singing.

Minneapolis Concert: Gordon Bok, Ann Mayo Muir, Ed Trickett

Folk-Legacy Records – FSI-110

Format: Vinyl, LP, Reissue
Country: US
Released: 1987
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk
[Tracklist]
A1 The Gin And Rasberry (3:59)
A2 Little Dan (3:00)
A3 Penobscot Memory (4:39)
A4 The Rolling Of The Stones (1:43)
A5 Bothwell Castle (3:49)
A6 Waltzing With Bears (4:49)
B1 Changing Times (4:34)
B2 Melora's Song (4:17)
B3 Belfast Hornpipe (2:17)
B4 The Sea Wife (2:58)
B5 What You Can Do With What You Got (2:52)
B6 Julian Of Norwich (3:44)
[Credits]
Gordon Bok (guitar/cellamb/vocals) Ann Mayo Muir (flute/harp/whistle/bells/vocals) Ed Trickett (guitar/dulcimer/vocals)
Liner Notes: Ed Trickett, Designer: Walter Schwarz, Photographer: Ellen Vincent
[Notes]
This recording of Folk-Legacy's flagship trio took place over two nights at the Coffeehouse Extempore in Minneapolis. Performing both new and traditional songs, the set offers a strong survey of Bok, Muir, and Trickett's musicianship with a wide range of instrumentation, including twelve-string guitar, flute, harp, whistle, hammer dulcimer, and cellamba - a fretted, six-string cello created by Bok. On occasion, they are also joined by a 400 voice choir.

J'ai Été Au Bal (I Went to the Dance) Volume One

The Cajun and Zydeco Music of Louisiana

Arhoolie Records – ARH00331

Format: CD, Album, Compilation
Country: US
Released: 1990
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Cajun & Zydeco
[Tracklist]
01 J'ai Été Au Bal: Walter Mouton & The Scott Playboys (4:50)
02 Convict Waltz: Walter Mouton & The Scott Playboys (2:54)
03 Ful Il Sa: Queen Ida & The Bon Ton Zydeco Band (2:53)
04 J'ai Été Au Bal: Lionel LeLeux (1:36)
05 Lake Arthur Stomp: Lionel LeLeux & Michael Doucet (1:47)
06 Acadian Waltz: Michael Doucet (1:21)
07 Reel Cajun: Michael Doucet (2:09)
08 Lorita: Canray Fontenot (1:25)
09 Bernadette: Canray Fontenot (1:26)
10 Happy One-Step: Dennis McGee (3:05)
11 O, Malheureuse: Dennis McGee (1:40)
12 Madame Atchen: Amédé Ardoin & Dennis McGee (3:04)
13 Lake Charles Two-Step: Bois Sec Ardoin & Sons (2:35)
14 Domino Two-Step: Nathan Abshire (1:56)
15 Jolie Petite Blonde: Nathan Abshire (2:31)
16 Melville Two-Step: Marc Savoy (1:41)
17 I Made A Big Mistake: Marc & Ann Savoy (4:02)
18 Allons á Lafayette: Joe Falcon & Cleoma Breaux (2:56)
19 La Reine Da La Salle: Odile Falcon (0:56)
20 Ninety-Nine Year Waltz: Solange Falcon (1:04)
21 Une Piastre Ici: Luderin Darbone & the Hackberry Ramblers (2:36)
22 Hackberry Hop: Leo Soileau & His Four Aces (2:56)
23 Grand Texas: Chuck Guillory with Preston Manuel & The Rhythm Boys (2:28)
24 Jole Blonde: Harry Choates (2:45)
25 J'ai Été Au Bal: Iry LeJeune (2:42)
26 La Valse Des Grands Chemins: Iry LeJeune (2:57)
[Credits]
Editor: Chris Strachwitz and Maureen Gosling, Cover Artwork: Lynda Barry, Consultant: Dix Bruce
[Notes]
The first volume of the soundtrack to the documentary J'ai Ete Au Bal (I Went to the Dance) is an exciting cross-section of the biggest names in New Orleans zydeco and cajun music, featuring first-rate cuts from Walter Mouton, Queen Ida, Nathan Abshire, Iry LeJeune, and Michael Doucet, among many others.-- Review by Thom Owens

This Is Buddy Guy! : Live at New Orleans House Berkeley, California

Vanguard – VSD-79290

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1968
Genre: Blues, Folk, World, & Country
Style: Chicago Blues
[Tracklist]
A1 I Got My Eyes On You (3:20)
A2 The Things I Used To Do (3:00)
A3 (You Give Me) Fever (6:05)
A4 Knock On Wood (4:47)
B1 I Had A Dream Last Night (6:05)
B2 24 Hours Of The Day (2:410)
B3 You Were Wrong (4:39)
B4 I'm Not The Best (6:48)
[Credits]
Buddy Guy (guitar/vocals) Leslie Crawford (baritone saxophone) George Alexander and Norman Spiller (trumpet) A.C. Reed and Bobby Fields (tenor saxophone) Tim Kaihatsu (guitar) Jack Meyers (bass) Glenway McTeer (drums)
r Producer: Sam Charters, Recorder: Ed Friedner
[Notes]
Buddy Guy's signature live album, This is Buddy Guy! featured the bluesman in his prime (already revered by his peers) and unhindered by the restrictions of recording in a studio for producers and label expectations. Thus listeners are treated to some of the most blazing extended solos and soulful singing of Buddy's career to this day. There is not a weak track, "Fever" and "I Got My Eyes On You" are both highlights. Searing 1960's blues.-- Review by Kenneth Bridgham

Brown's Ferry Four: Fine Singing of Wonderful Sacred Country Songs

Gusto GT7 0961-2

Format: CD, Album
Country: US
Released: 2008
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Gospel, Folk
[Tracklist]
01 Arm of God (2:35)
02 Bound for the shore (2:15)
03 Can't you hear him calling (2:28)
04 Eternity without Him (2:35)
05 Everybody will be happy over there (2:00)
06 Hallelujah morning (2:02)
07 Heaven, eternal for me (2:23)
08 His boundless love (2:54)
09 I am a weary pilgrim (2:42)
10 Jesus hold my hand (2:49)
11 Keep on the firing line (2:34)
12 Lord is watching over me (2:44)
13 On the Jericho road #1 (2:46)
14 Over in the glory land (1:59)
15 Praise God! He loves everybody (2:45)
16 Rock of ages, hide thou me (2:34)
17 There's a light guiding me (2:50)
18 There's a page in the Bible (2:39)
19 Through the pearly gate (2:25)
20 What shall I do with Jesus (2:27)
21 When He blessed my soul (2:50)
22 When the Good Lord cares (2:02)
23 Will the circle be unbroken (2:57)
24 You must be born again (2:21)
[Credits]
Brown's Ferry Four: Grandpa Jones, Merle Travis, and the Delmore Brothers (Choir)
[Notes]
Based on their lineup alone, Brown's Ferry Four was a country supergroup from the get-go, with an original membership consisting of Grandpa Jones, the Delmore Brothers, and Merle Travis. Though the group only existed for ten years, and almost never made any personal appearances or gave any concerts, they managed to become one of the most beloved country gospel groups through their radio broadcasts and the nearly four dozen sides they recorded for King Records between 1946 and 1952.

Lightning Hopkins: Texas Blues Man

Arhoolie Records – F1034

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1968
Genre: Blues, Folk, World, & Country
Style:Texas Blues
[Tracklist]
A1 Tom Moore Blues (5:01)
A2 Watch My Fingers (2:48)
A3 Little Antoinette (3:38)
A4 Love Is Like a Hydrant (3:58)
A5 Cut Me Out Baby (3:27)
B1 Take a Walk (2:37)
B3 Slavery (5:29)
B4 I Would If I Could (3:19)
B5 Bud Russell Blues (4:32)
B6 At Home Blues (3:07)
[Credits]
Lightnin' Hopkins (guitar/vocals)
Recorder and Photographer: Chris Strachwitz, Designer: Wayne Pope
[Notes]
Recorded by Chris Strachwitz on portable equipment in Houston, 1967. The Penguin Guide to Blues Recordings wrote that the album contains "powerful performances with a resonant electric guitar filling the studio," but that "it was no more than an average Hopkins album."

Eric & Suzy Thompson: Adam & Eve Had The Blues

Arhoolie Records – CD 5041

Format: CD, Album
Country: US
Released: 1989
Genre: Blues, Folk, World, & Country
Style: Blues, Cajun
[Tracklist]
01 Stop And Listen (3:18)
02 Three-In-One Two-Step (2:53)
03 Basile Waltz (3:33)
04 Blame It On The Blues (3:03)
05 Chaussettes Blues (2:55)
06 In My Girlish Days (2:21)
07 When I Get Home (3:02)
08 Valse de Balfa (3:10)
09 Adam & Eve Had The Blues (3:04)
10 Danse de Poullard (2:00)
11 Corrina, Corrina (3:25)
12 Carroll County Blues (3:16)
13 Mean Old Bedbug Blues (5:48)
[Credits]
Suzy Thompson (fiddle/guitar/vocals) Eric Thompson (guitar) Laurie Lewis (bass) Elizabeth Weil (bass) David Grisman (mandolin) Kevin Wimmer (fiddle) Danny Poullard (accordion/triangle) Will Scarlett (harmonica) Bill Bardin (trombone) George Fleming (trumpet) Earl Scheelar (clarinet) Charlie St. Mary (rubboard)
Producer: John Lumsdaine, Photographer: Anne Nadler, Engineer: Michael Cogan and Bob Shumakerg
[Notes]
Eric & Suzy Thompson have devoted their lives to the pursuit of weird and obscure old-time American music – warped fiddle tunes in odd tunings, cinematic ballads, country blues songs that contain mysterious metaphors, early Cajun music with incomprehensible French lyrics and backwards chords. Using fiddle, mandolin, guitars, Cajun accordion, banjo (and the occasional odd instrument such as the ten-stringed cuatro) they bring these early 20th century sounds right into the present day. "

Mississippi Fred McDowell: Delta Blues

Arhoolie Records – F 1021

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1964
Genre: Blues, Folk, World, & Country
Style: Delta Blues
[Tracklist]
A1 Write Me A Few Lines
A2 Louise
A3 I Heard Somebody Call
A4 61 Highway
A5 Mama Don't Allow Me
A6 Kokomo Blues
B1 Fred's Worried Life Blues
B2 You Gonna Be Sorry
B3 Shake Em On Down
B4 My Trouble Blues B5 Black Minnie
B6 That's Alrigh
B7 When I Lay My Burden Down
[Credits]
Mississippi Fred McDowell (guitar/vocals)
Recorder, photograpaher and Liner Notes: Chris Strachwitz, Designer: Wayne Pope
[Notes]
Discovered by Alan Lomax in 1959, Mississippi Fred McDowell quickly established himself as one of the finest country bluesmen to ever come out of Mississippi. With his strong, nuanced vocals and his rapid, slashing slide style, McDowell had few equals. This collection pulls together several of his mid-'60s recordings, including his fine version of "Write Me a Few Lines." Recorded in Como, Mississippi, on February 13, 1964 with One Capps Condenser Microphone.

Virginia Traditions: Tidewater Blues

BRI Records – BRI 006

Series: Virginia Traditions
Format: Vinyl, LP, Compilation
Country: US
Released: 1982
Genre: Blues, Folk, World, & Country
Style: Country Blues, East Coast Blues
[Tracklist]
A1 Leaving You, Mama: Carl Hodges (3:11)
A2 Albemarle County Rag: Henry Harris (1:19)
A3 I'd Feel Much Better: The Virginia Four (2:27)
A4 Blind Love: Pernell Charity (2:52)
A5 Barbershop Rag: William Moore (2:53)
A6 King Kong Blues: The Back Porch Boys (2:51)
A7 Black Rat Swing: John Cephas (3:04)
A8 Going Down The Road Feeling Good: Corner Morris (2:03)
B1 War Blues: Pernell Charity (2:49)
B2 Blues: Big Boy (4:34)
B3 Sweet Woman Blues: The Back Porch Boys (2:54)
B4 Motorcycle Blues: Henry Harris (1:33)
B5 Pleading Blues: Monarch Jazz Quartet Of Norfolk (2:40)
B6 Poor Boy Blues: Carl Hodges (3:09)
B7 Richmand Blues: John Cephas and John Woolfork (2:32)
B8 One Way Gal: William Moore (3:13)
[Credits]
Producer: Roddy Moore, Liner Notes: Kip Lornell, Editor: Linda Linnartz, Engineer: Kip Lornell, Pete Lowry, Roscoe Lewis, and Glen Hinson
[Notes]
Few states in this country can boast of more diverse folkways than Virginia. Many of the material objects—such as barns, tools, and furniture—reflect the traditions that shaped the lives of its earliest settlers and the generations of Virginians who followed. The Commonwealth’s performance traditions of songs, tunes, and tales also tell of a shared heritage involving all classes of people in every facet of life. Because traditions naturally change over time, the documentation of Virginia folk culture is an ongoing process essential to our understanding of the past, present, and future. By recording the folkways of Virginia, the Blue Ridge Institute of Ferrum College and its BRI Record label strive to foster a greater appreciation of our folk roots through an array of interpretive programs.

Mike Seeger: Southern Banjo Sounds

Smithsonian Folkways – SFW 40107

Format: CD, HDCD
Country: US
Released: 1998
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, Country
[Tracklist]
01 Soon In The Morning Babe (1:21)
02 Josh Thomas's Roustabout (2:39)
03 Jim Crack Corn (2:14)
04 Darling Cora (3:49)
05 Devil's Dream (1:51)
06 Little Birdie (3:21)
07 Around The World (2:21)
08 Whoopin' Up Cattle (3:00)
09 Flop Eared Mule (1:46)
10 Lost Gander (2:19)
11 The Sailor And The Soldier (1:57)
12 American Spanish Fandango (2:10)
13 Got No Silver Nor Gold Blues (2:21)
14 We're Up Against It Now (2:30)
15 That's What The Old Bachelor's Made Out Of (2:36)
16 The Last Of Callahan (1:47)
17 Lady Gay (3:42)
18 Down South Blues (2:47)
19 Last Night When My Willie Came Home (3:22)
20 Wabash Blues (2:00)
21 Bright Sunny South (2:54)
22 Roll On John (3:10)
23 Needlecase (1:30)
24 Come My Little Pink (2:42)
25 Battle In The Horseshoe (1:24)
26 I'm Head Over Heels In Love (2:23)
[Credits]
Mike Seeger (banjo)
Recorder, Producer and Liner Notes: Mike Seeger, Cover Art: Dane Penland, Engineer: Chrlie Pilzer, Production Superviser: Pete Reinuger, Production Coodinater: Mary Monseur and Michael Maloney
[Notes]
A survey of traditional Southern banjo techniques, styles, instrumentals and songs played solo on a variety of 23 mostly vintage banjos. Styles range from 19th-century African-American Mississippi style to a song played in the style evolved in the 1940s by Northern Carolinian Earl Scruggs. Recorded and annotated by Mike Seeger.

Been in the Storm So Long

A Collection of Spirituals, Folk Tales and Children's Games from Johns Island, SC

Smithsonian Folkways – SF 40031

Format: CD, Album, Reissue
Country: US
Released: 1990
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Gospel, Folk
[Tracklist]
01 Remember Me: Moving Star Hall Singers (2:07)
02 See God's Ark A-Moving: Moving Star Hall Singers (3:01)
03 Ask the Watchman How Long: Moving Star Hall Singers (2:16)
04 Meet Me in Galilee: Moving Star Hall Singers (2:08)
05 Talking `Bout a Good Time: Benjamin Bligen (2:37)
06 That's All Right: Laura Rivers (2:45)
07 Jesus Knows All About My Trouble: Moving Star Hall Singers (1:29)
08 Esau Jenkins Talking: Esau Jenkins (3:37)
09 Lay Down Body: Moving Star Hall Singers (6:02)
10 Welcome Table and Prayer: Alice Wine (2:00)
11 Ezekial in the Valley: Moving Star Hall Singers (3:05)
12 Been in the Storm So Long: Mary Pinckney (5:55)
13 Jack and Mary and the Three Dogs: Janie Hunter (1:35)
14 You Got to Move: Janie Hunter (2:30)
15 Moonlight in Glory: Ruth Bligen (1:47)
16 Mary Rolled the Stone Away: Janie Hunter (2:14)
17 Ezekial in the Valley: Janie Hunter (3:04)
18 Down on Me: Mary Pinckney and Janie Hunter (2:51)
19 Reborn Again: Benjamin Bligen (1:45)
20 Row Michael Row: Moving Star Hall Singers (1:12)
21 Johnny Cuckoo: Janie Hunter (1:03)
22 Old Lady from Booster: Moving Star Hall Singers (1:22)
23 Shoo Turkey: Moving Star Hall Singers (1:04)
24 Mr. Postman Die: Moving Star Hall Singers (1:19)
25 Water My Flowers: Moving Star Hall Singers (2:11)
26 Rabbit and Partridge: Janie Hunter (1:21)
27 Improvised Blues: Mary Pinckney and Janie Hunter (6:48)
28 Jack and Mary and the Devil: Janie Hunter (6:47)
[Credits]
Producer: Guy Carawan and Candie Carawan, Designer: Nancy Jean Anderson, Photographer: David Gah
[Notes]
An extraordinary sound portrait of one of the oldest African American communities in the western world. Collectors Guy and Candie Carawan's document of Johns Island, South Carolina reveals a community full of music and life. "Virtuoso performances of the song and shout congregational traditional singing." — National Museum of American History

Karen James Accompanying herself on Guitar

Folkways Records – FG3549

Format: Vinyl, LP
Country: USP
Released: 1961P
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: FolkP
[Tracklist]
A1 The Gypsy Laddie (2:36)
A2 Morning Dew - James Machree (1:07)
A3 The Fair Maid on the Shore (3:08)
A4 The Ghost Lover (3:03)
A5 The Dark Eyed Sailor (2:15)P
A6 Young Riley (3:03)P
A7 Captain Wedderburn's Courtship (3:19)
B1 The Carrion Crow (1:21)
B2 Monday Morning (2:39)
B3 Digue Dindaine (2:48)
B4 The Story of Weldon Chan (2:20)
B5 The Ballad of Allan Rose (3:05)
B6 The Pete Seeger Song (3:55)
[Credits]P
Karen James (guitar/vocals)
Liner Notes: Samuel Gesser, Designer: Ken Danby
[Notes]
Rather than drawing only on popular folk songs, singer and guitarist Karen James selected a repertoire for this album that reflects both the history and traditions of her native Canada and contemporary events. She performs folk songs from Newfoundland and Nova Scotia, and others on topics such as illegal immigration, a mining tragedy, and even Pete Seeger's refusal to testify before the House Un-American Activities Commission in 1955. These choices demonstrate James’s belief that folk songs are meant to record history and emotion, as well as to provide entertainment. Liner notes include a short biography and song lyrics.

Mountain Frolic: Rare Old Timey Classics 1924-1937

JSP Records – JSP77100

Format: 4 x CD, Compilation, Remastered
Country: UK
Released: 2007
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Country
[Disk One]
01 Little Sally Goodin (3:08)
02 Goin' Up Town (2:56)
03 Billy In The Low Ground (2:50)
04 Green Backed Dollar Bill (2:54)
05 Chesapeake Bay (3:03)
06 Fate Of Santa Barbara (2:43)
07 Sherman Valley (2:35)
08 Get Along Home Cindy (3:22)
09 Darby's Ram (3:17)
10 Stepstone (2:55)
11 Speaking The Truth (3:07)
12 A Stump Speech In The 10th District (3:37)
13 Adam And Eve (3:11)
14 North Bound Train (3:14)
15 You'll Never Find A Daddy Like Me (2:49)
16 Mobile County Blues (2:54)
17 Just Because (2:53)
18 Village School (3:04)
19 Fatal Flower Garden (2:58)
20 Rabbit Chase (3:05)
21 Sugar Hill (3:00)
22 I Ain't A Bit Drunk (2:59)
23 No Business Of Mine (3:32)
24 I'll Never Get Drunk Again (3:04)
25 Governor Smith For President (3:00)
[Disk Two]
01 The Faded Coat Of Blue (3:11)
02 The Wagoner's Lad (Loving Nancy) (3:04)
03 The Dying Soldier (Brother Green) (3:09)
04 Red Wing (2:45)
05 Snow Deer (2:53)
06 In The Shadow Of The Pines (2:41)
07 You Taught Me How To Love You (Now Teach Me To Forget) (2:52)
08 The Hobo's Last Ride (3:02)
09 Steel A Goin' Down (2:23 10 Toll The Bells (2:46)
11 The Cowboy Trail (2:39)
12 The Blind Man (2:53)
13 I'm Rolling Along (2:30)
14 A Mountain Boy Makes His First Record (Pt.1) (3:35)
15 A Mountain Boy Makes His First Record (Pt.2) (2:51)
16 Election Day In Kentucky (Pt.1) (3:22)
17 Election Day In Kentucky (Pt.2) (3:01)
18 Black Eyed Susie (2:50)
19 Cluck Old Hen (2:43)
20 Boatin' Up Sandy (2:54)
21 Johnson Boys (2:46)
22 Gonna Raise Ruckus Tonight (3:23)
23 Cindy (2:49)
24 Old Joe Clark (3:06)
25 Whistlin' Rufus (3:14)
26 When You're All In Down And Out (3:09)
[Disk Three]
01 The Faded Coat Of Blue (3:11)
02 The Wagoner's Lad (Loving Nancy) (3:04)
03 The Dying Soldier (Brother Green) (3:09)
04 Red Wing (2:45)
05 Snow Deer (2:53)
06 In The Shadow Of The Pines (2:41)
07 You Taught Me How To Love You (Now Teach Me To Forget) (2:52)
08 The Hobo's Last Ride (3:02)
09 Steel A Goin' Down (2:23)
10 Toll The Bells (2:46)
11 The Cowboy Trail (2:39 12 The Blind Man (2:53)
13 I'm Rolling Along (2:30)
14 A Mountain Boy Makes His First Record (Pt.1) (3:35)
15 A Mountain Boy Makes His First Record (Pt.2) (2:51)
16 Election Day In Kentucky (Pt.1) (3:22)
17 Election Day In Kentucky (Pt.2) (3:01)
18 Black Eyed Susie (2:50)
19 Cluck Old Hen (2:43)
20 Boatin' Up Sandy (2:54)
21 Johnson Boys (2:46)
22 Gonna Raise Ruckus Tonight (3:23)
23 Cindy (2:49)
24 Old Joe Clark (3:06)
25 Whistlin' Rufus (3:14)
26 When You're All In Down And Out (3:09)
[Disk Four]
01 Bring Me A Leaf From The Sea (2:59)
02 Good-bye My Bonnie, Good-bye (2:54)
03 The Bulldog Down In Sunny Tennessee (3:07)
04 I Love My Mountain Home (2:50)
05 When The Good Lord Sets You Free (3:11)
06 There's A Man Goin' Around Takin' Names (3:34)
07 Lay Down Baby, Take Your Rest (3:10)
08 Can't You Remember When Your Heart Was Mine (3:00)
09 Roll On, Boys (3:06)
10 You Are A Little Too Small (3:03)
11 Peg And Awl (3:00)
12 I'll Be Washed (2:58)
13 Hand In Hand We Have Walked Along Together (3:26)
14 The Train's Done Left Me (3:10)
15 Who's Gonna Kiss Your Lips, Dear Darling (3:10)
16 Oh, How I Hate It (3:12)
17 Rude And Rambling Man (3:21)
18 The Old Grey Goose (2:54)
19 Back To Mexico (2:45)
20 The Hen House Door Is Locked (2:53)
21 Got The Farm Land Blues (3:21)
22 Washing Mama's Dishes (2:54)
23 She Wouldn't Be Still (2:46)
24 Roll On, Daddy, Roll On (3:03)
25 The Bulldog Down In Sunny Tennessee (2:27)
[Credits]
Artists: Crockett Family, Walter Couch And Wilks Ramblers, Dr. Humphrey Bate and His Possum Hunters, Bascom Lamar Lunsford, Nelstone's Hawaiians, Charlie Parker, George Roark, Smoky Mountain Ramblers, Red Patterson's Piedmont Log Rollers, Carolina Night Hawks, Al Hopkins and His Buckle Busters, Hugh Cross & Riley Puckett, Carolina Tar Heels, Ernest Thompson, Bradley Kincaid, The Pine Mountain Boys, Dad Crockett, Dock Walsh
[Notes]
JSP-77100 MOUNTAIN FROLIC (Various old-time artists --4 CD set) Here's another of those neatly packaged British imports with tons of music at a really bargain price. As with others in this series, there are over 100 tracks. This set is roughly based on a very early (1940s) Decca 78rpm album of rare 1920s material from the old Vocalion and Brunswick catalogs (Buell Kazee, Hill Billies, Dad Crockett, Bascom Lunsford, etc) that proved to be quite influential among folksingers and the early old-time revivalists like New Lost City Ramblers. There is plenty here of interest to old time fans, though some of the groups that appear here seem selected totally at random (George Roark, Charlie Parker, Walter Couch and Red Patterson are each represented with one cut --all good tracks, but we can't figure out what the connection to the other material is. The groups that get the most attention are Buell Kazee (40 songs) and The Carolina Tar Heels (22 Victor tracks). There are also 7 pieces each by Bascom Lamar Lunsford and Nelstone's Hawaiians. Collectors should note right away that the 40 Kazee songs almost totally duplicate two fairly recent Buell Kazee reissues on the British Archive label (BACM-027 and 214). The Nelstone cuts are nice, and seldom heard, and there are a few well chosen tracks by Dr. Humphrey Bate and Al Hopkins' Buckle Busters. Notes and discography are better than on some other recent JSP issues, but still hard to read. All in all, there's still a lot here for the old time fan to enjoy.

Precious Memories: Jean Ritchie Sings Folk and Country Song

Folkways Records – FA 2427

Format: Vinyl, LP
Country: US
Released: 1962
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, Country
[Tracklist]
A1 The Little Rosebud Casket (3:11)
A2 The Gypsy's Warning (2:39)
A3 The Poor and Rambling Boy (3:51)
A4 Jim Blake (4:32)
A5 Bury Me Beneath the Willow (2:36)
A6 No Sir (2:14)
A7 The Printer's Bride (3:53)
A8 Pretty Betty Martin (1:43)
B1 Precious Memories (3:28)
B2 The Great Speckled Bird (2:43)
B3 Sweet Willie (2:01)
B4 Two Little Children - The Orphan's Last Plea (1:35)
B5 The Most Fair Beauty Bright (2:23)
B6 The Maple on the Hill (3:02)
B7 The Wreck on the Highway (2:07)
B8 Go Dig My Grave (2:06)
[Credits]
Jean Ritchie (dulcimer/guitar/vocals) Accompanied by Arthur Rosenbaum, Eric Weissberg and Marshall Brickman
Liner Notes: Jean Ritchie, Designer: Ronald Clyne, Photographer: George Pickow
[Notes]
Today, it's hard to imagine songs like "Rosewood Casket" or "Bury Me Beneath the Willow" as new-fangled pop songs, "hillbilly music" adored by the young and controversial to everyone else. Famed ballad singer Jean Ritchie shares some of the popular songs that caught her fancy as a youth.

John A. Lomax, Jr. Sings American Folksongs

Folkways Records – FG 3508

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1956
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Country
[Tracklist]
A1 The Texian Boys (1:54)
A2 I'm All Out And Down (2:24)
A3 The Midnight Special (3:13)
A4 All The Baby Chickens In The Garden (2:52)
A5 The Cocaine Song (2:01)
A6 The Factory Girl (1:32)
A7 St. James Infirmary (2:43)
A8 Get Along Little Dogies (3:23)
A9 Tee Roo, Farmer's Curst Wife (2:20)
B1 Tee Roo, Farmer's Curst Wife (2:29)
B2 The Tin Maker Man (0:27)
B3 Buffalo Skinners (3:38)
B4 Louisiana Girls (1:39)
B5 Hay Making Song (1:33)
B6 Long Time Ago (1:37)
B7 John Henry (4:27)
B8 Rye Whiskey (2:18)
B9 Pick A Bale Of Cotton (1:30)
B10 Good Bye Old Paint (1:34)
[Credits]
John A. Lomax Jr. (vocals)
Designer: Ronald Clyne
[Notes]
Singing unaccompanied, John A. Lomax Jr., the son of John Avery Lomax, the pioneering musicologist and folklorist, performs an eclectic collection of American folk songs, some pre-dating the Civil War. He learned the country lullaby "All the Baby Chickens in the Garden", on his father's knee, and the blues holler, "I’m All Out and Down,"from Lead Belly after the iconic folk and blues musician had left the Angola penitentiary. Also included are work songs, a children’s ballad, courting song, play-party song, and more. There is a personal story behind every track. Lomax Jr. understood the historical importance of a song, and was keen to save aspects of American life from oblivion. Thus the lives of the cotton picker, the cowboy, and the buffalo skinner live on in this 1956 recording.

Swope's Knobs: W. Franklin George with John Hilt

Roane Records – RR-111

Format: CD, Album, Reissue
Country: US
Released: 1999
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk
[Tracklist]
01 Arka]nsas Traveler (1:57)
02 Soldier's Joy (2:15)
03 Black-Eyed Susan (1:29)
04 Mississippi Sawyer (1:57)
05 Old Zip Coon (2:22)
06 Walkin' In The Parlor (2:29)
07 Jordan's A Hard Road To Travel (2:49)
08 Farrell O'Gara (1:32)
09 Kitty's Wedding (1:43)
10 Boys From Blue Hill (2:07)
11 Harvest Home (1:58)
12 Kildare Fancy (1:52)
13 The Grove (1:49)
14 Boyne Water (2:16)
15 Petronella (2:08)
16 Cluck Old Hen (1:52)
17 Sourwood Mountain (2:49)
18 Massa's Gone Away (2:04)
19 Harv Brown's Dream (2:22)
20 Little Brown Jug (2:15)
21 Ol' Spinning Wheel In The Parlor (1:45)
22 Darling Nellie Gray / Golden Slippers (3:19)
23 Little Ol' Log Cabin In The Lane / Red Wing / When You And I Were Young, Maggie (3:19)
24 Sweet Bye And Bye (2:07)
25 O'Higgans Hornpipe (2:10)
26 Doheny's Favourite (1:25)
27 Sugar In The Gourd (2:03)
28 Paddy O'Meagher's Reel (2:00)
29 Larry O'Gaff (1:28)
30 Dusty Miller (1:41)
31 Jenny Lind Polka (2:26)
32 Old Bill Cheatham (2:13)
33 My Love She's But A Lassie Yet (2:02)
34 Irish Washerwoman / The Campbells Are Coming / St. Patrick's Dag / McCoy's Jig (2:15)
[Credits]
Franklin George (banjo/fiddle/dulcimer) John Hilt (fiddle/vocals) Pat Dunford (banjo/guitar/vocals) John Summers (fiddle)
Liner Notes: Franklin George, Pat Dunford and Timothy A. Cox, Photographer: Virginia Campbell and William C. Blizzard, Engineer: George Mayle and Patrick Dunford
[Notes]
An exceptional old-time release on Roane Records. Franklin George, a legendary fiddler, banjo-player, bag-pipe player, and all around musician and old-time scholar, is featured on this release as well as the rare fiddle performances of John Hilt and John Summers. Originally issued in 1977 on the obscure Anachronistic label, this collection features Franklin George on fiddle, banjo, hammered dulcimer, and Pat Dunford on banjo and guitar. This is indeed an incredible collection of very well played fiddle and banjo tunes and Scottish Reels. Very sensitive and sincere notes are included.