December 30, 2023

Fast Folk Musical Magazine Volume 5 Number 2

Fast Folk Musical Magazine - FF 502
Live At The Bottom Line 88

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: United States
Released: 1989
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk
[Tracklist]
A01 Up Until Then: Jack Hardy, Shawn Colvin, and Margo Hennebach (04:07)
A02 Brothers: David Roth with Lillie Palmer and Jack Hardy (03:13)
A03 Gallo Del Cielo (Rooster from Heaven): Tom Russell and Fats Kaplan (06:03)
A04 Danton Intro: Lillie Palmer (01:06)
A05 Danton: Lillie Palmer and Mark Dann (04:24)
A06 Godzilla: Eric Frandsen (02:21)
A07 Bon Vinae: Aztec Two-Step (04:33)
A08 The Well: Richard Shindell (03:43)
A09 My Father's Shoes: Cliff Eberhardt and Mark Dann (02:45)
A10 Shotgun Down the Avalanche: Shawn Colvin with David Roth and Lillie Palmer (04:11)
A11 Margaret & Vincent: Frank Tedesso and Margo Hennebach (04:01)
A12 On A Winter's Night: Williw Nininger (03:12)
A13 Sierra Blanca: David Massengill and band (04:49)
A14 Hidden In Plain Sight: Richard Meyer, Josh Joffen, Lillie Palmer, and Rod MacDonald and band (03:46)
B01 Monkey See, Monkey Do (Intro): Josh Joffen (00:32)
B02 Monkey See, Monkey Do: Josh Joffen, Richard Meyer, and Marcie Boyd (03:11)
B03 Rising In Love: Shawn ColvinDavid Roth (02:52)
B04 The Hunter Intro: Jack Hardy (00:27)
B05 The Hunter: Jack Hardy and band (06:15)
B06 Celibacy Intro: Marcie Boyd (00:17)
B07 Celibacy: Marcie Boyd and Willie Nininger and band (03:31)
B08 Uneasy Nights: Richard Meyer and band (05:17)
B09 Rose of Rangoon Intro: Erik Frandsen (00:47)
B10 Rose of Rangoon: Erik Frandsen, Jeff Hardy, and Howie Wyeth (03:15)
B11 Un Rabdomante Incompetente (Intro): Germana Pucci (00:14)
B12 Un Rabdomante Incompetente: Germana Pucci, Richard Meyer, and Rod MacDonald (04:08)
B13 Wooden Horse: Suzanne Vega (04:23)
B14 The Last Call: David Massengill and Lisa Gutkin (04:19)
B15 On the Road in NY Town: Rod MacDonald with ensemble and band (06:06)
B16 Talk Around Town: Shawn Colvin and band (05:18)
[Credits]
Producer: Richard A. Meyer, Field Worker: David Van Der Hayden, Recorder: David Seitz
[Notes]
The Bottom Line was a popular folk music venue in Greenwich Village during the 1970s–1990s. For this recording, Fast Folk Musical Magazine drew on two shows presented in April 1988. The performances range from solo acoustic to full house band accompaniment with electric guitar, piano, bass, drums, and violin. Among the variety of musical styles (traditional folk, folk-rock, Tejano, and more) and artists included are Suzanne Vega, Shawn Colvin, and Jack Hardy. A 26-page facsimile of the Fast Folk Musical Magazine is included with the recording.

December 27, 2023

Bob Dylan – John Wesley Harding

Columbia -  CS 9604

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album, Stereo
Country: United States
Released: 1967
Genre: Rock, Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk Rock, Country Rock, Country
[Tracklist]
A1 John Wesley Harding (3:00)
A2 As I Went Out One Morning (2:52)
A3 I Dreamed I Saw St. Augustine (3:56)
A4 All Along The Watchtower (2:34)
A5 The Ballad Of Frankie Lee And Judas Priest (5:36)
A6 Drifter's Escape (2:49)
B1 Dear Landlord (3:18)
B2 I Am A Lonesome Hobo (3:25)
B3 I Pity The Poor Immigrant (4:16)
B4 The Wicked Messenger (2:05)
B5 Down Along The Cove (2:26)
B6 I'll Be Your Baby Tonight (2:39)
[Credits]
Bob Dylan (guitar/harmonica/piano/vocals) Charles McCoy (bass) Kenny Buttrey (drums) Pete Drake (steel guitar)
Producer: Bob Johnston, Engineer:Charlie Bragg
[Notes]
Bob Dylan returned from exile with John Wesley Harding, a quiet, country-tinged album that split dramatically from his previous three. A calm, reflective album, John Wesley Harding strips away all of the wilder tendencies of Dylan's rock albums -- even the then-unreleased Basement Tapes he made the previous year -- but it isn't a return to his folk roots. If anything, the album is his first serious foray into country, but only a handful of songs, such as "I'll Be Your Baby Tonight," are straight country songs. Instead, John Wesley Harding is informed by the rustic sound of country, as well as many rural myths, with seemingly simple songs like "All Along the Watchtower," "I Dreamed I Saw St. Augustine," and "The Wicked Messenger" revealing several layers of meaning with repeated plays. Although the lyrics are somewhat enigmatic, the music is simple, direct, and melodic, providing a touchstone for the country-rock revolution that swept through rock in the late '60s. - AllMusic Review by Stephen Thomas Erlewine

December 22, 2023

Old Regular Baptists: Lined-Out Hymnody from Southeastern Kentucky

Smithsonian Folkways – SF CD 40106

Format: CD, Album
Country: United States
Released: 1997
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, Sacred
[Tracklist]
01 Brethren We Have Met Again (04:17)
02 On Jordan's Stormy Banks (04:23)
03 O, How Happy are They (04:20)
04 The Day is Past and Gone (04:37)
05 Guide Me O Thou Great Jehovah (04:39)
06 Jesus, Thou Art the Sinner's Friend (04:27)
07 Jesus Left His Home in Glory (05:09)
08 Salvation O the Name I Love (04:58)
09 I'm Not Ashamed to Own My Lord (04:01)
10 I Am a Poor Pilgrim of Sorrow (05:27)
11 Farewell Vain World (04:27)
12 I Am Going to the City (03:20)
13 The Meaning of Singing (12:22)
[Credits]
Indian Bottom Association (hymnody)
Recorder, Field Worker and Producer: Jeff Todd Titon
[Notes]
The oldest English-language religious music in oral tradition in North America, the lined-out, congregational hymnody of the Old Regular Baptists, is heard in the heart of the coal-mining country of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. This music of worship once was the common way of singing sacred song in the American Colonies. In this rare and beautiful music lies the roots of the high, lonesome mountain sound of elaborate melodic turns and graces. A descriptive booklet provides perspectives on the people, their beliefs and practices, their history and theology, and their music.

December 16, 2023

Songs for All Year Long

Folkways Records – SC 7626
Recorded by Children from New York P.S. 24 Brooklyn

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album, Reissue
Country: United States
Released: 1959
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Educational, Children's
[Tracklist]
A1 School Is a Useful Tool (01:50)
A2 They Laughed at Columbus (01:22)
A3 What Would Hallowe'en Be? (01:15)
A4 My Mom's Thanksgiving Dinner (01:00)
A5 Old Man Winter's on His Way (01:06)
A6 I Believe in Santa Claus (03:03)
A7 Why Not Make It All the Time? (01:12)
B1 Send a Valentine (02:51)
B2 We Remember You, George Washington (01:16)
B3 Eastertime Is a Happy Time for Me (01:59)
B4 There's No Time Like the Springtime (02:22)
B5 On My Graduation Day (03:22)
[Credits]
Gil Slote and the Children of New York P.S. 24 (guitar/vocals)
Cover Artwork: Irwin Rosenhouse
[Notes]
On this album, originally recorded for Scholastic Records in 1956, New York City sixth grade teacher and Juilliard alumnus Gil Slote sings a collection of original songs following an average school year's timeline—starting in early fall, ending just before the beginning of summer, and including songs about holidays in between. Slote is accompanied on all songs by students of his from school P.S. 24 in New York. Liner notes provide discussion questions and activities for each song for teachers and children.

December 13, 2023

Red Allen Sings In Memory of the Man: Dedicated to Lester Flatt

Folkways Records– FTS 31073

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: United States
Released: 1980
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Bluegrass
[Tracklist]
A1 I'll Take the Blame (02:26)
A2 What's Good for You (02:32)
A3 Over the Hill to the Poorhouse (03:42)
A4 Somehow Tonight (03:05)
A5 I'll Never Shed Another Tear (02:32)
A6 Give Mother My Crown (02:34)
B1 Going Back to Harlan (01:37)
B2 I'm Waiting to Hear You Call Me Darling (02:45)
B3 Why Don't You Tell Me So (02:32)
B4 My Darling's Last Goodbye (02:15)
B5 Your Love is Like a Flower (02:25)
B6 Gone Home (02:36)
[Credits]
Red Allen (guitar/vocals) Curly Seckler (vocals) Harley Allen, Jr. (guitar/vocals) Marty Stuart (mandolin/guitar/vocals) Tater Tate (fiddle/vocals) Gene Wooten (dobro) Pete Corum (bass) Blake Willams (banjo)
Photographer: Ronald Clyne, Engineer: Stive Scruggs
[Notes]
In 1980, bluegrass performer Harley "Red" Allen (1930–1993) recorded an album to honor the memory and legacy of country and bluegrass legend Lester Flatt (1914–1979). Allen, known for his "high, lonesome sound," is backed by a band composed of veteran musicians including Marty Stuart on mandolin and several from Flatt’s last band, Nashville Grass, as well as his son Harley Jr. and Curly Seckler on vocals. The collection includes songs written by Flatt or associated with Flatt and Earl Scruggs of the Foggy Mountain Boys. The band gives a spirited vocal and instrumental workout to the bluegrass standard "Shady Grove," titled here as "Going Back to Harlan."

December 12, 2023

The Original Chambers Bros. Groovin' Time

Folkways Records – FTS 31008

Format: Vinyl, LP
Country: United States
Released: 1968
Genre: Blues, World, & Country
Style: Blues
[Tracklist]
A1 Hooka Tooka (03:17)
A2 Down in the Alley (03:08)
A3 Rough and Rocky Road / I'll Fly Away (05:54)
A4 Who Lives by the Law (04:34)
B1 Groovin' Time (03:40)
B2 Yes, Yes, Yes (03:32)
B3 Oh Baby, You Don't Have to Go (02:49)
B4 Chain Gang Thang (02:39)
B5 So Long Baby (04:40)
[Credits]
Chambers Brothers - George (bass) Lester (harmonica) Willie (guitar) Joe (guitar)
Recorder: Mel Kaiser and Moses Asch, Designer: Craig Mierop
[Notes]
The Chambers Brothers' second album released by Folkways Records features the original four brothers, Willie, George, Lester, and Joe, grooving through blues, gospel, funk, and jazz. Their Mississippi Baptist roots are complemented by a secular soulfulness, merging political preaching with playful rhythm. Included is an electric guitar, bass, and drum rendition of Julian "Cannonball" Adderley’s "Work Song" entitled "Chain Gang Thang," which plays like a surf ballad. Despite being released the same year as their Billboard hit, "Time Has Come Today," this album is not to be overlooked as it represents the unique and defining sound of the founding Chambers Brothers. Includes brief liner notes by Producer Robin McBride who describes this album as a "Joy-That never ends!"

December 5, 2023

Pete Seeger - Song and Play Time

Smithsonian Folkways – SFW CD 45023

Format: CD, Album, Reissue, Remastered
Country: United States
Released: 2001
Genre: Folk, Children's, World, & Country
Style: Folk, Children's
[Tracklist]
01 Go in and Out the Window (02:30)
02 She'll Be Coming Around the Mountain (03:04)
03 Skip to My Lou (04:51)
04 Here We Go Luby-Loo (02:25)
05 Going to Boston (02:00)
06 Little Sally Walker (01:43)
07 I've Been Working on the Railroad (01:09)
08 Let Us Come In (03:14)
09 Birthday Polka (01:21)
10 I Wonder What Tinya Can Do (02:07)
11 Captain Jinks (02:20)
12 Bob-a-Needle (01:31)
13 Mary Wore a Red Dress (02:11)
14 Red Bird (03:06)
15 Ha-Ha This A-Way (04:08)
16 Soon As We All Cook Sweet Potatoes (03:40)
[Credits]
Pete Seeger (banjo/vocals)
Liner Notes: Daniel Sheehy, Mastering Engineer: Pete Reiniger, Designer: Carol Dirga Design
[Notes]
Pete Seeger offers his music as a gift to all of us so that we might make it our own, part of our personal or family tradition. During a career spanning more than six decades, he has roused audiences—of children and adults—to tap their feet, clap their hands, and sing along with him. These songs from children, originally recorded in 1960, present Pete Seeger at his best. Straightforward and irresistable, his voice invites us to join with him for the fun of it. Beautifully remastered. 12-page booklet with lyrics. 40 minutes.

December 4, 2023

Piano Blues

RBF Records – RBF 12
Compiled and Edited by Samuel Charters

Format: Vinyl, LP, Compilation
Country: United States
Released: 1966
Genre: Blues, World, & Country
Style: Piano Blues
[Tracklist] A1 Big Mama: Walter Roland (02:32)
A2 Dice's Blues: Walter Roland (02:46)
A3 Broke Man Blues: Sylvester Palmer (03:04)
A4 Skippy Whippy: Mississippi Jook Band (02:50)
A5 Fanny Lee Blues: Wesley Wallace (03:15)
A6 Number 29: Wesley Wallace (03:13)
A7 Pratt City Blues: Jabo Williams (03:19)
B1 M & O Blues #3: Walter Davis (02:52)
B2 Dyin' Rider Blues: Romeo Nelson (03:09)
B3 On the Wall: Louise Johnson (03:04)
B4 Lost All I Had Blues: Roosevelt Sykes (03:20)
B5 The First Time I Met You: Little Brother Montgomery (02:55)
B6 Jab Blues: Jabo Williams (03:23)
B7 Good Woman Blues: Peetie Wheatstraw (02:55)
[Credits]
Compiler and Editor: Samuel Charters, Photographer: Ann Charters, Designer: Ronald Clyne
[Notes]
"Everybody had their own style," Jelly Roll Morton said of blues and jazz piano players. This collection explores the music of famous and less well-known blues pianists in the 1920s "classic blues" era and in the 1930s, when the distinctive boogie-woogie style of piano playing began to emerge.

The Magnolia Sisters: Love's Lies

Arhoolie Records – CD 549

Format: CD, Album
Country: United States
Released: 2014
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Cajun
[Tracklist]
01 Le bonne vie (The Good Life) (02:42)
02 Est-ce que tu penses jamais à moi? (Do You Ever Think of Me?) (02:45)
03 Le deserteur (The Deserter) (03:19)
04 Je va's jamais oublier (I'll Never Forget You) (03:12)
05 Malinda (02:38)
06 Les clos de coton (The Cotton Fields) (02:49)
07 En route chez moi (Going Home) (02:25)
08 Arrêtes-pas la musique (Don't Stop the Music) (02:54)
09 Oublies-moi jamais (Never Forget Me) (02:31)
10 Par derrière chez mon père (Behind My Father's House) (02:50)
11 La Valse du Grand Bois (Waltz of the Longwoods) (02:35)
12 Hot Stuff (03:48)
[Credits]
Producer, Recorder and Engineer: Joel Savoy, Designer: Ann Savoy
[Notes]
Founded in 1995, the Magnolia Sisters (Ann Savoy, Jane Vidrine, Lisa Trahan, and Anya Burgess) is a rarity; it is an all-female Cajun band. The Sisters' musical focus is to seek out vintage Cajun songs and recast them into their own distinctive style. Released in 2014, this collection is full of stories of love and tragedy, string band tunes from the 1930s, and an original blues song. The music is designed to set toes tapping.

December 3, 2023

Friends of Old Time Music: The Folk Arrival 1961-1965

Smithsonian Folkways – SFW CD 40160

Format: 3 x CD, Compilation
Country: United States
Released: 2006
Genre: Blues, Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, Bluegrass, Blues, Gospel, & Old Time
[Tracklist]
1-01 I'm Troubled: Doc and Arnold Watson (03:10)
1-02 The Country Blues: Dock Boggs (04:24)
1-03 Going Down to the River: Fred McDowell (03:09)
1-04 East Virginia Blues: Roscoe Holcomb (04:51)
1-05 The Storms Are on the Ocean: Maybelle Carter (03:03)
1-06 The Dream of the Miner's Child: The Stanley Brothers (04:03)
1-07 Soldier's Joy: Hobart Smith (01:45)
1-08 Coffee Blues: Mississippi John Hurt (04:47)
1-09 Live and Let Live: Bill Monroe and His Blue Grass Boys (02:46)
1-10 Lonely Tombs: The Watson Family (02:25)
1-11 Rockin' Boogie: Jesse Fuller (03:46)
1-12 Brown's Dream: Gaither Carlton and Doc Watson (01:43)
1-13 Down South Blues: Dock Boggs (03:17)
1-14 Knoxville Blues: Sam McGee (02:30)
1-15 Have a Feast Here Tonight: The Stanley Brothers (03:12)
1-16 Riley: John Davis and the Georgia Sea Island Singers (02:09)
1-17 Buck and Wing: Jesse Fuller (01:22)
2-01 Hell Among the Yearlings: Arthur Smith (01:47)
2-02 Amelia Earhart's Last Flight: The Greenbriar Boys (03:47)
2-03 The Brakeman's Blues: Bill Monroe and His Blue Grass Boys (02:32)
2-04 Foggy Mountain Top: Maybelle Carter (02:07)
2-05 Hicks' Farewell: Doc Watson (05:00)
2-06 Jordan is a Hard Road to Travel: The New Lost City Ramblers (02:42)
2-07 Write Me a Few of Your Lines: Fred McDowell (02:54)
2-08 Bimini Gal: Joseph Spence (02:44)
2-09 Shady Grove: Bill Monroe and His Blue Grass Boys (01:37)
2-10 Grey Eagle: Bill Monroe and His Blue Grass Boys (01:36)
2-11 Walkin' the Dog: Bill Monroe and His Blue Grass Boys (02:03)
2-12 San Francisco Bay Blues: Jesse Fuller (03:24)
2-13 Short Life of Trouble: Doc and Arnold Watson (03:41)
2-14 John Henry: Roscoe Holcomb (01:59)
2-15 Kneelin' Down Inside the Gate: Stanley Thompson (03:45)
2-16 Tell Me Why You Like Roosevelt: McKinley Peebles (04:29)
2-17 Bury Me Under the Weeping Willow: Maybelle Carter (02:34)
2-18 Mansions for Me: The Stanley Brothers (02:27)
2-19 Before This Time Another Year: Bessie Jones and the Georgia Sea Island Singers (05:02)
3-01 My Creole Belle: Mississippi John Hurt (02:54)
3-02 Guitar Lesson: Jesse Fuller (01:26)
3-03 Cincinnati Blues: Jesse Fuller (02:27)
3-04 Poor Boy in Jail: Dock Boggs (02:41)
3-05 He's Solid Gone: Maybelle Carter (02:44)
3-06 Maggie Walker Blues: The Clarence Ashley Group (03:43)
3-07 Chevrolet: Ed Young and Emma Ramsay (03:14)
3-08 Rising Sun Blues: Roscoe Holcomb (03:03)
3-09 Lord, Build Me a Cabin in Glory: Bill Monroe and His Blue Grass Boys (01:37)
3-10 Frankie and Albert: Mississippi John Hurt (05:20)
3-11 Hard Times: The Stanley Brothers (02:23)
3-12 The Miller's Will: Horton Barker (03:17)
3-13 The Coo Coo Bird: Clarence Ashley (04:04)
3-14 Double File: Gaither Carlton and Doc Watson (01:30)
3-15 The Wandering Boy: Annie Bird (03:22)
3-16 Stranger Blues: Jesse Fuller (03:29)
3-17 I Saw the Light: Bill Monroe and His Blue Grass Boys (02:24)
3-18 Sugar Hill: Maybelle Carter (01:06)
3-19 Amazing Grace: The Clarence Ashley Group (04:29)
[Credits]
Producer, Recorder, Mastering Engineer and Liner Notes: Peter K Siegel, Photographer: David Gahr, John Cohen, Alan Lomax, Mike Seeger, Guy Droussart, and Anton Mikofsky
[Notes]
From 1961 to 1965, New York City's trailblazing Friends of Old Time Music presented 14 concerts that brought dozens of legendary traditional musicians before city audiences for the first time. This "folk arrival" changed the course of American folk music, expanding the vision of the Folk Song Revival and leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape. For Friends of Old Time Music, Peter K. Siegel, who personally recorded most of the concerts, handpicked 55 tracks from the original master tapes. They include the first concert appearances by Doc Watson, Roscoe Holcomb, Clarence Ashley, and Joseph Spence, and the triumphant return visits to New York by Dock Boggs and Mississippi John Hurt, who had made classic recordings in the city during the 1920s. Three CDs of live concert recordings. 55 tracks, including 53 never before released tracks. Accompanied by a richly illustrated 60-page book. Recorded, produced, and annotated by Peter K. Siegel A Henry Street Folklore production Produced in association with City Lore, Inc.

December 2, 2023

CooP - Fast Folk Musical Magazine Vol. 2 #6 Traditional Songs

Fast Folk Musical Magazine – FFSE206

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: United States
Released: 1983
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk
[Tracklist]
A1 The Lambs on the Green Hills: Paul Kaplan and Mark Dann (03:49)
A2 Enlist, Bonnie Laddie: John Roberts and Mark Dann (03:05)
A3 Do You Love an Apple: Janne Henshaw and Paul Kaplan (02:31)
A4 Another Way to Find You: Chris Smither (03:24)
A5 Return from Fingal: Ken Perlman (02:32)
A6 Bon An, Mai An: Gabriel Yacoub and Mark Dann (04:08)
A7 Four Silver Rings: Peter Wilson and Mark Dann (03:24)
B1 Wondrous Love: Soldier's Fancy (01:39)
B2 Sí Bheag, Sí Mhór: Mike Agranoff (03:40)
B3 The Wings of a Gull: David Jones (03:25)
B4 Elegy Early On: Bob Zaidman and Mark Dann (02:51)
B5 Love is Kind: Richard Fewtrell (03:42)
B6 I Have This Love: John Hodell and Mark Dann (02:33)
[Credits]
Producer: Jack Hardy, Recording Engineerr: Mark Dann
[Notes] Fast Folk Musical Magazine continued its second year of publication with a collection of another dozen songs, this one focusing on traditional folk songs and songs written in traditional folk music styles. The pieces range from tales of lost love to tales of soldiers and sailors and include two guitar instrumentals: the Celtic "Si Bheag, Si Mhor," performed by guitarist Mike Agranoff, and "Return from Fingal" by Ken Perlman. Others contributing performances are Chris Smither ("Another Way to Find You"), John Roberts performing the Scottish song "Enlist, Bonnie Laddie," French folk singer Gabriel Yacoub singing "Bon An, Mal An," English folk singer Richard Fewtrell ("Love Is Kind"), and the female quintet A Soldier’s Fancy ("Wondrous Love"). A 21-page edition of The CooPis included with the collection.

November 30, 2023

The Pueblo Indians: In Story, Song and Dance

Folkways Records - FC 7200

Format: Vinyl 10", LP, Album
Country: United States
Released: 1955
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, Indigenous
[Tracklist]
A   Kuo-Haya (The Bear Boy) - A Folk Tale (12:55)
B1 Hunting the Fox (02:26)
B2 The Laughing Horse (02:35)
B3 The Buffalo Dance (02:16)
B4 Background Music from the Bear Boy: Story Teller Song (01:55)
B5 Background Music from the Bear Boy: Green Corn Dance (01:38)
B6 Background Music from the Bear Boy: Medicine-Man Chant (00:45)
[Credits]
Swift Eagle (narration/vocals)
Liner Notes: Charles Gallenkamp, lustrations: Yeffe Kimball, Foreword: Carl Carmer
[Notes]
Swift Eagle, a Pueblo storyteller, singer, and dancer, offers a glimpse into the culture of the Pueblo Indians through the sound recordings on this album. Included is what was likely the first public performance of the ancient legend "The Bear Boy." Liner notes by Charles Gallenkamp, an anthropologist and writer who lived among the Pueblo Indians for several years, include a background of the Pueblo people and their culture. The 24-page booklet also includes color illustrations by Yeffe Kimball and a brief description of each piece.

November 29, 2023

Early Band Ragtime

Folkways Records – RBF 38
Compiled and Annotated by David A. Jasen

Format: Vinyl, LP, Compilation
Country: United States
Released: 1979
Genre: Jazz, World, & Country
Style: Jazz, Ragtime
[Tracklist]
A1 Maple Leaf Rag: The United States Marine Band (02:35)
A2 Dill Pickles: Pryor's Band (02:27)
A3 Pickles and Peppers: Pryor's Band (02:37)
A4 Smiler Rag: The Zonophone Concert Band (02:25)
A5 Black and White Rag: The Walter B. Rogers Orchestra (02:15)
A6 Whitewash Man: Pryor's Band (02:25)
A7 Wild Cherries: The Zonophone Orchestra (02:46)
A8 Temptation Rag: Pryor's Band (02:34)
B1 Carpet Rags: Hager's Orchestra (02:42)
B2 Cabaret Rag: Prince's Band (02:38)
B3 Southern Beauties Rag: Pryor's Band (02:46)
B4 Sweetmeats: The Zonophone Orchestra (02:42)
B5 Powder Rag: Black Diamonds Band, Peerless Orchestra (02:39)
B6 Ragamuffin Rag: The Walter B. Rogers Orchestra (02:39)
B7 Les Copeland's Rag: n/a (01:44)
B8 Banana Peel Rag (Gus Winkler): Roger's Band (02:13)
B9 Honolulu Rag: n/a (02:33)
[Credits]
Producer: David. A Jasen, Designer: Tom Phillips and Ronald Clyne
[Notes]
As music written for piano, ragtime challenged band leaders and arrangers, who wanted to give their renditions of each piece more individuality than publishers' stock arrangements allowed. This compilation showcases creative arrangements of well-known melodies and introduces a few obscure rags.

November 28, 2023

Lullabies of the World

Folkways Records – FE 4511
Collected and Edited by Lilian Mendelssohn

Format: 2 x Vinyl, LP, Album, Stereo
Released: 1963
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Children's, World
[Tracklist]
A01 Mexico: Duermete mi niño / Mejico-Azteca / Tata Niñito / Duerme niño lindo (03:24)
A02 United States: Good night sleep tight (02:49)
A03 Canada: Mon petit (01:08)
A04 Brasil: Ruxiñol (01:32)
A05 Argentina: Arroro mi niño / Durmite Changito (02:14)
A06 El Salvador: Dormite niñito (01:29)
A07 Honduras: Señora Sant' Anna (01:37)
A08 Colombia: Duerme niño pequeñito (00:40)
B01 Guatemala: A La Rorro Nene / Xayib Nabal a C'Anjel (01:48)
B02 Venezuela: Palomita Blanca / Duermete Niño Chiquito (01:32)
B03 Puerto Rico: A dormir / Duerme negrito (02:25)
B04 Haiti: Fait dodo / Fait dodo, cola mon petit frere (04:02)
B05 Cuba: Dormi, dormi (01:32)
B06 French Guiana: 17th Century Lullaby (01:19)
B07 Spain: A La Nana Mi Rey / Eya - Eya - Eya (02:26)
B08 Holland: Als Jude Kindren Slape Jahn / En over de Weide dor blonk de zon (03:05)
B09 Germany: Die Bluemelein sie schlafen / Ober de stelen straten / Sonstiges (04:56)
B10 Belgium: Dodo l'enfant dors / Dodo deyne Mieken (03:02)
C01 France: Fait dodo (01:15)
C02 Sweden: Vyssa lulla litet barn (00:36)
C03 Norway: Sulla lulla (00:37)
C04 Czechoslovakia: Tece var (00:58)
C05 Poland: Uszny, uszny (01:07)
C06 Luthania: Mociute mano (00:36)
C07 Estonia: Tula, tula (01:08)
C08 Latvia: Aija anzit aija (00:46)
C09 Yiddish: Ach neshome main / Mach tzu die eigelach / Yankele (07:23)
C10 Hungary: Ay, pavo, ay / Oluya baba / Eszteba eszte (02:30)
C11 Italy: Fi la nana, e mi bel fiol (00:46)
D01 Israel: Shir erez / Leyla (04:36)
D02 South Africa: Landiti, danditi (01:53)
D03 Sudan: Alundé dodo basé / Loje kiki dai / Dibiti ovajiran / Dodo pisé titi (05:03)
D04 Nigeria: Yup ña ño udü (01:57)
D05 Japan: Two songs (03:23)
D06 Greece: Kimísu yé mu (01:13)
D07 Indonesia: Hay ti moñ anacosa / O anané kéké (03:04)
[Creduts]
Collector and Editor: Lilian Mendelssohn, Designer: Ronald Clyne, Photographer: David Gahr
[Notes]
"This collection has been created in the atmosphere of family life, with all the warmth and affection for the little ones before entering their lives. How much security a mother can give her child with some minutes of holding it fast in her arms, once a day, creating this very intimate union, one with the other! How sweet to remember these hours of childhood and home, of loving parents, of no sorrows..." Lilian Mendelssohn

November 26, 2023

Mahalia Jackson - I Sing Because I'm Happy

Smithsonian Folkways Recordings - FSFP9002

Format: CD, Album
Country: United States
Released: 1995
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Gospel, Sacred
[Tracklist]
1 He's Got The Whole World In His Hands (02:46)
2 Recollections of early childhood (13:32)
3 Joshua Fit The Battle of Jerico (02:30)
4 Recollections of New Orleans music (09:15)
5 I Sing Because My Soul Is Happy (04:30)
6 Recollections of New Orleans violence and role of church (10:55)
7 I Sing Because My Soul Is Happy (04:27)
8 Recollections of influences on her music (10:10)
9 The Lord's Prayer (03:50)
[Credits]
Mahalia Jackson (vocals)
Producer Recorder, Compilerand Liner Notes: Jules Victor Schwerin, Designer: Carol Hardy, Mastering Engineer: David Glasser
[Notes]
Complements Jules Schwerin, The Life I Sing About: Mahalia Jackson, Talking and Singing the Gospel, Oxford University Press, 1992. Schwerin's interviews with Mahalia Jackson in the 1950s include Jackson reminiscing about her early childhood and her involvement with music. Four songs from concert performances are also included.

November 17, 2023

Folksongs and Ballads of Virginia Sung by Paul Clayton

Folkways Records – FA 2110

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: United States
Released: 1956
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk
[Tracklist]
A1 Railroad Bill (01:15)
A2 In the Pines (03:23)
A3 Gambling Man (00:49)
A4 Wild Rover (02:40)
A5 Bill Dooley (02:02)
A6 Talt Hall (01:11)
A7 The Farmer's Curst Wife (02:39)
B1 Harvey Logan (01:50)
B2 Lady Margaret (01:21)
B3 Frankie (02:39)
B4 If I Had a Bottle of Rum (00:58)
B5 Lord Darnell (04:10)
B6 Poor Old Maids (01:54)
B7 Little Pig (01:40)
[Credits]
Paul Clayto (guitar/vocals)
Producer: Kenneth S. Goldstein
[Notes] Massachusetts native Paul Clayton spent his college years at the University of Virginia collecting songs and writing a thesis about Child ballads found in the state. Clayton selected these songs from his own fieldwork recordings, and Kenny Goldstein supplies the album's extensive liner notes.

November 8, 2023

Music of New Mexico: Native American Traditions

Smithsonian Folkways – CD SF 40408

Format: CD, Album
Country: United States
Released: 1992
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, Native American
[Tracklist]
01 Zuni Pueblo Rainbow Dance Song (6:06)
02 Picuris Pueblo Captive Dance Song (3:34)
03 Picuris Pueblo Two-Step Dance Song (4:41)
04 San Juan Pueblo Cloud Dance Song (13:19)
05 Navajo Two-Step Dance Song (1:22)
06 Navajo Two-Step Dance Song (1:13)
07 Taos Pueblo Round Dance Song (2:17)
08 Taos Pueblo Round Dance Song (2:37
09 New Navajo Two-Step Dance Song (2:10)
10 New Navajo Skip Dance Song (1:49)
11 Zuni Courting Flute Song (1:53)
12 The Handshake (3:37)
13 Moccasin Game Song (3:47)
14 The Traveling Song (1:34)
15 Tsidii-Bird (1:20)
16 Welcome Home (4:31)
17 Taos Pueblo Courting Song (1:45)
18 Taos Pueblo Round Dance Song (3:07)
19 Glitter Nights (05:48)
[Credits]
Producer: Howard Bass, Liner Notes Editor: Nancy G. Brooks, Photographer: Jack Parsons, Designer: The Watermark Design Office, Recorder and Mastering Engineer: John Tyler
[Notes]
This portrait of Pueblo, Navajo, and Mescalero Apache music from New Mexico (recorded in 1992) reveals a remarkable breadth of Native American song, from a traditional San Juan Pueblo Cloud Dance song to modern Navajo songs. 68 minutes. Produced by Howard Bass. Annotated by Edward Wapp Wahpeconiah. "The purpose, phrasing, and structure of these tribal pieces are often unique, intricate, and powerfully evocative." — Washington Post.

October 31, 2023

Harry Jackson – The Cowboy: His Songs, Ballads & Brag Talk

Folkways Records –  FH 5723

Format: 2 x Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: United States
Released: 1959
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, Ballads, Spoken
[Tracklist]
A1 Morning Grub-Holler (00:19)
A2 The Round Up Cook (00:48)
A3 The Dally Roper's Song (02:51)
A4 I Ride an Old Paint (03:46)
A5 Some Cowboy Brag-Talk (01:35)
A6 Little Joe the Wrangler (03:53)
A7 Utah Carroll (07:59)
A8 Old Iron Pants Pete (02:57)
B1 The Saddle Bum (02:16)
B2 Strawberry Roan (04:56)
B3 I Ain't Got No Use for the Women (03:38)
B4 Blood on the Saddle (00:34)
B5 The Ridge Running Roan (05:20)
B6 Roll On, Little Dogies (03:42)
B7 The Hangman's Song (03:34)
C1 Boastin' Cowboy (00:31)
C2 Tying a Knot in the Devil's Tail (03:09)
C3 Clayton Boone (02:54)
C4 Old Blue was a Gray Horse (03:00)
C5 Little Joe the Wrangler's Sister Nell (03:28)
C6 The Gal I Left Behind (03:38)
C7 Zebra Dun (03:55)
C8 When the Work's All Done This Fall (02:27)
D1 The Pot Wrassler (01:44)
D2 Streets of Laredo (04:59)
D3 Windy Bill (02:42)
D4 Cowboy Talking to a Bucking Horse (00:21)
D5 As I Went Walking One Morning for Pleasure (04:01)
D6 Cowboy Jack (03:00)
D7 Jack O' Diamonds (04:13)
D8 I'm Gonna Leave Old Texas Now (02:24)
[Credits]
Harry Jackson (vocals)
Liner Notes: Kenneth S . Goldstein, Cover design: Ronald Clyne
[Notes]
Fascinated by horses and cowboys, but not by school, Harry Jackson (1924–2011) left his home in Chicago at age 14 to become a ranch hand and cowboy in Wyoming. While there, he learned cowboy songs from traditional singers, and he sings them here in the traditional unaccompanied manner. The songs portray the life of a cowboy in an authentic, unadorned fashion that is light-years removed from Hollywood and country western simulations. After serving in World War II, Harry Jackson became a prominent artist, focusing on realistic western paintings and sculpture portraying cowboys and Native Americans. Extensive liner notes, written by folklorist Kenneth Goldstein, provide background information about Jackson and each song.

October 27, 2023

I'm Old But I’m Awfully Tough

Missouri Friends of the Folk Arts - M.F.F.A.1001
Traditional Music of the Ozark Region

Format: 2 x Vinyl, LP, Compilation
Country: United States
Released: 1977
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk
[Tracklist]
A01 I'm Old but I'm Awfully Tough: Lee Finis Cameron "Tip" McKinney (01:23)
A02 Lighthouse: Emmanuel Wood and Family (01:42)
A03 Story: Emmanuel Wood and Family (01:10)
A04 Dixie Blossom: Emmanuel Wood and Family (02:00)
A05 Walk Along John: Emmanuel Wood and Family (02:13)
A06 Spokane Waltz: Emmanuel Wood and Family (02:25)
A07 Bear Creek Sally Goodin: Emmanuel Wood and Family (02:32)
A08 The Rattlesnake and the Texas Pony: Green Berry Horton (01:28)
A09 Story: Green Berry Horton (01:11)
A10 Over the Woods and Through the Snow: Green Berry Horton (00:37)
A11 Bunker Hill: Green Berry Horton (01:33)
A12 Mignight Shuffle: Green Berry Horton (00:42)
B01 Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star: Troy Lee, Rex and Ray Offutt (02:37)
B02 Old Fort Smith: Troy Lee, Rex and Ray Offutt (02:03)
B03 Unnamed Schottische: Troy Lee, Rex and Ray Offutt (01:42)
B04 Durang's Hornpipe: Troy Lee, Rex and Ray Offutt (02:02)
B05 Whiskey Before Breakfast: Troy Lee, Rex and Ray Offutt (03:08)
B06 Kentucky Waltz: Troy Lee, Rex and Ray Offutt (01:38)
B07 Gone to View That Land: Lee Finis Cameron "Tip" McKinney (02:59)
B08 Gypson Davy: Lee Finis Cameron "Tip" McKinney (04:07)
B09 Wandering Boy: Lee Finis Cameron "Tip" McKinney (04:07)
B10 Heaven Bells Are Ringing: Lee Finis Cameron "Tip" McKinney (01:23)
C01 Dance Around Molly: Jake Hockemeyer and Russ Orchard (01:56)
C02 Coming Down From Denver: Jake Hockemeyer and Russ Orchard (01:51)
C03 Marmaduke's Hornpipe: Jake Hockemeyer and Russ Orchard (01:47)
C04 The Death of the Old Sow: Lawrence Baker (01:16)
C05 The Old Man Who Lived in the West: Lawrence Baker (02:28)
C06 She Oughta' Been A Lady: Vesta Johnson and Don Womack (00:58)
C07 Story: Vesta Johnson and Don Womack (01:19)
C08 Fat Meat and Dumplings: Vesta Johnson and Don Womack (01:27)
C09 Middlegrove: Frank Reed and Alva Lee Hendren (01:15)
C10 Stoney Point: Frank Reed and Alva Lee Hendren (01:21)
C11 Massa Bill: Frank Reed and Alva Lee Hendren (01:22)
C12 Fox Chase: Frank Reed and Alva Lee Hendren (01:26)
D01 Story of La Guignolee: Rose Pratt (00:37)
D02 La Guignolee: Rose Pratt (01:49)
D03 Story: Rose Pratt (01:01)
D04 La Guignolee: Charlie Pashia and Joe Politte (01:39)
D05 Rustic Dance: Charlie Pashia (01:28)
D06 Father's Schottische: Charlie Pashia (02:13)
D07 Jenny Put the Kettle On: Joe Politte (00:54)
D08 Story and Unnamed Tune: Joe Politte (02:34)
D09 Molly Musk: Joe Politte (02:00)
D10 Mule Stories: Joe Politte (03:46)
D11 The Old Rock Road: Joe Politte (01:40)
D12 Old Man Portell's Tune: Joe Politte (01:10)
D13 Grand Picnic: Joe Politte (01:50)
[Credits]
Field Recording: Julia Olin, Jim Olin and Barry Bergey, Remastering and Editing: Steve Fuller, Designer: Elizabeth Shepard, Photographer: Scott Dine, Barry Bergey and Julia Olin
[Notes]
I'm Old But I'm Awfully Tough: Traditional Music of the Ozark Region is a collection of field recordings made in southern Missouri and in northern Arkansas over the period of 1975–76 by members of the Missouri Friends of the Folk Arts. The singers, instrumentalists, and storytellers who appear on these records reveal the variety and richness of the folk traditions in the Ozark region. Many of these tunes and songs are unique and none of these performers had appeared on record before [the original release of this album in 1977]. Some of the music may surprise you because it is not normally associated with the Ozark region. Some of the conversation may enlighten you, providing a historical perspective not often found in Ozark history books. We hope that all of it will entertain you.

October 26, 2023

Traditional Sacred African-American Steel Guitar Music in Florida

Arhoolie Records – CD 450

Format: CD, Compilation, Reissue
Country: United States
Released: 1997
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Gospel
[Tracklist]
01 Don't Let the Devil Ride: Sonny Treadway (03:03)
02 In the Garden: Sonny Treadway (03:08)
03 At the Cross: Sonny Treadway (02:49)
04 Call Him by His Name: Glenn Lee (03:36)
05 Pass Me Not, Oh Gentle Savior: Glenn Lee (02:35)
06 Joyful Sounds: Glenn Lee (04:27)
07 Just a Closer Walk with Thee: Willie Eason (04:59)
08 Little Wooden Church on a Hill: Willie Eason (04:28)
09 Franklin D. Roosevelt, a Poor Man's Friend: Willie Eason (05:59)
10 This Is a Holy Church: Sonny Treadway (07:17)
11 At the Cross: Sonny Treadway (02:18)
12 Amazing Grace: Sonny Treadway (01:52)
13 God Be with You: Sonny Treadway (00:55)
14 Closing Prayer: Sonny Treadway (00:25)
15 Praise the Lord Everybody: Henry Nelson (07:55)
16 Amazing Grace: Henry Nelson (04:47)
17 Praise Music: Aubrey Ghent (04:22)
18 Father in Jesus' Name: Aubrey Ghent (03:13)
19 House Of God March: Aubrey Ghent (04:29)
20 God Be with You: Aubrey Ghent (01:42)
{Credits]
Producer: Robert Stone, Executive producer: Chris Strachwitz, Re-release Coordinator: Teresa Hollingsworth, Photographer and Liner Notes: Robert Stone, Designer: Dept. of State/Graphics & Dix Bruce, Remix and mastering: Bay Records, Berkeley, Ca.
[Notes]
Originally developed for playing Hawaiian music, the steel guitar was integrated into the sacred music of two branches of the House of God, an African-American Holiness Pentecostal church in the late 1930s. This collection is drawn from sacred music recorded between 1993 and 1997 and is divided into instrumentals/concerts and live religious services. The liner notes provide a brief history of the steel guitar and its sacred music traditions.

October 23, 2023

Mural by Rocco Manno, painted on the side of Manno Dairy Farm

Who are those guys?

Anyone who has driven from Warwick to Sugar Loaf on Kings Highway has seen the huge mural of a group of well-known Hollywood actors on the side of a barn. The building, now a local landmark, is on the Manno family farm and the artist is Rocco Manno, who teaches art at Warwick Valley High School. "Over the years hundreds of people have stopped to take a picture of something I did just because I thought it would be fun," said Manno. "I would love to now document in book form as many of these photos as possible and possibly the story to go with it if there is one." Manno, who first painted Elvis Presley and James Dean on the barn in 1996, is looking to obtain a copy of a photograph from anyone who had ever taken a picture of the mural, posed in front of it alone or with family and friends, taken one with their car or motorcycle or anything else.

The first version of Dean and Elvis was repainted white and a second version of Elvis, James Dean and Marlon Brando was painted in 2006. The most recent third version added Clint Eastwood, Steve McQueen and Paul Newman in 2016. "The number of people that have stopped is really amazing and that’s just the ones I know about,” said Manno. “From cool cars, models, friends and wedding parties and then of course just the image taken of the mural itself from each person’s own perspective is great. Never would I have thought when I painted some of my favorites on the barn that it would have generated such a buzz. I appreciate everyone who has ever looked at it and enjoyed a glimpse as you passed."

Source: Warwick Valley High School teacher and artist Rocco Manno seeks photos for new book

October 20, 2023

Fannie Lou Hamer – Songs My Mother Taught Me

Smithsonian Folkways – SFW CD 40216

Series: African American Legacy Recordings
Format: CD, Compilation, Reissue
Country: United States
Released: 2015
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, Gospel, Struggle
[Tracklist]
01 Precious Lord (06:22)
02 On Being a Sharecropper (05:13)
03 Run Mourner, Run (01:23)
04 City Called Heaven (03:31)
05 All the Pretty Little Horses (01:34)
06 I'm Gonna Land on the Shore (02:29)
07 Oh Lord, You Know Just How I Feel (04:04)
08 I’m Going Down to the River of Jordan (02:42)
09 Jesus Is My Only Friend (03:03)
10 Pick a Bale of Cotton (00:44)
11 Keep Your Lamps Trimmed and Burning (01:09)
12 Walk With Me (01:41)
13 This Little Light of Mine (03:08)
14 Mass Meeting Speech (05:08)
15 Certainly Lord (01:39)
16 Woke Up This Morning (02:36)
17 Amazing Grace (01:27)
[Credits]
Fannie Lou Hamer (talking/vocals)
Producerand Liner Notes: Mark Puryear, Liner Notes Editor: Carla Borden, Designer: Sonya Cohen Cramer, Photographers: Louis H. Draper and Herbert Randall, Recorders: Worth Long, Vivian Tseng, Julius Leste and Moses Moon, Mastering Engineer: Pete Reiniger
[Notes]
The 20th child of a Mississippi sharecropper family and a commanding voice of the Civil Rights Movement, Fannie Lou Hamer (1917–1977) stood tall against the brutality, indignities, and intimidation of implacable racism. She harnessed her mother's gifts of song and plain-spoken wisdom to steel her fellow seekers of social justice, the cause to which she gave her life. Songs My Mother Taught Me, a re-release of limited-edition 1963 field recordings, breathes new life into Fannie Lou Hamer's inspiring legacy and her uncompromising call for a righteous world. 47 minutes, 32-page booklet with photos. This recording is the eighth release in the Smithsonian Folkways African American Legacy Series, co-presented with the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture.

October 18, 2023

Fast Folk Musical Magazine Volume 5 Number 9

Fast Folk Musical Magazine – FFFF509
Live at the Postcrypt Coffeehouse Columbia University

Format: CD, Album
Country: United States
Released: 1992
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk
[Tracklist]
01 Baltimore: 5 Chinese Brothers (03:16)
02 Take Me to Juarez: Michael Jerling (05:04)
03 Wake Up!: Professor Louie and Fast Eddie (06:01)
04 I'll Cry Tonight: Wendy Beckerman and Tom Spanardi (02:44)
05 Your Hair: David Hamburger (02:56)
06 Swimming to the Other Side: Pat Humphries (03:30)
07 The TVA Waltz: Eddy Lawrence (04:31)
08 Sparrow's Point: Richard Shindell (05:09)
09 Rodeo Weddings and Rockabilly Lives: Beverly Greenfield (03:00)
10 Cool Conception: Susan Firing and Rob Glick (04:05)
11 Missing Keys: David Ray (02:35)
12 The World of Tomorrow: Jeff Wilkinson (05:48)
13 Teacher of the Game: Jane Byaela (04:04)
14 The Phenomenology Sing-Along: Hugh Blumenfeld (02:54)
15 Fall in Montreal: Tom Dickie (03:28)
16 Momentary Lapse of Taste: David Cantor (02:55)
17 Tracey: Flathead (03:21)
18 Ghost of a Girl: Richard Julian (03:19)
19 Whiskey and Rain: Frank Tedesso (04:05)
[Credits]
Producer: Richard A. Meye, Field Worker: David Seitz
[Notes]
Begun in 1982 by veteran folksinger Jack Hardy as a music cooperative for folksingers and songwriters living in New York City, Fast Folk Musical Magazine was issued in both magazine and recording formats. In this edition, "Live at the Postcrypt – Columbia University," the magazine's emphasis is on the intimate performances of music by new, emerging, and touring artists. The result is a collection of songs of love and marriage ("Rodeo Weddings and Rockabilly Lives"), love lost ("Ghost of a Girl"), places ("Baltimore" "Take Me to Juarez" and "Fall in Montreal"), and spoken word stylings ("Wake Up"). A 20-page facsimile of the magazine is included.

October 9, 2023

Pete Seeger - The Folksinger's Guitar Guide: An Instruction Record

Folkways Records – CRB 1

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: United States
Released: 1955
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, Music Instruction
[Tracklist]
A1 Tuning Up (02:49)
A2 The First Chord (01:59)
A3 Two More Chords (02:02)
A4 Use of the Capo (02:16)
A5 Methods of Strumming (02:30)
A6 Bass Runs (03:03)
A7 Bass Countermelody (00:53)
B1 a: The "Church Lick"; b:"Hammering On" (02:21)
B2 The Blues (03:38)
B3 Two Finger Plucking (02:14)
B4 Other Tunings (03:49)
B5 A Hint of Flamenco (01:54)
B6 A Rhumba Rhythm (01:47)
B7 The Mexican Blues (02:18)
[Credits]
Pete Seeger (guitar/vocals)
Liner Notes: Pete Seeger, Photographer: David Gahr
[Notes]
Icon of the American folk music revival Pete Seeger teaches folk guitar through a detailed written instruction guide (included in the liner notes) which accompanies in-depth teaching and classic folk song examples on the album itself. He advises: " … if you enjoy playing the guitar, you shouldn’t think of it as practicing, in the formal sense. Rather, simply play for your own enjoyment … "

October 7, 2023

Anthems of All Nations Vol. 1

Folkways Records – FS 3881

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: United States, La Belgium, Canada, Czechoslovakia, Great Britain, Germany, France, Israel, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Turkey and U.S.S.R.
Released: 1956
Genre: Pop, Brass & Military
Style: Military, Brass Band, Political, Marches
[Tracklist]
A1 United States: The Star Spangled Banner (01:20)
A2 La Belgium: Brabanconne (02:50)
A3 Canada: O Canada (01:19)
A4 Canada: The Maple Leaf Forever (01:12)
A5 Czechoslovakia: Kde Domov Muj (00:53)
A6 Great Britain: God Save the Queen (03:27)
A7 Great Britain: Rule Britannia (01:04)
A8 Germany: Deutschlandlied (02:18)
B1 France: La Marseillaise (02:28)
B2 Israel: Hatikvah - Tikvatenu (02:57)
B3 Japan: Kimi-Ga-Yo - The Emperor's House (02:17)
B4 Mexico: Himno Nacional Mexico (01:27)
B5 Netherlands: Wilhelmus van Nassouwe (01:43)
B6 Turkey: Independence March (01:56)
B7 U.S.S.R.: Anthem of the Soviet Union (01:32)
[Credits]
Producer: Michael J. Schwartzman
[Notes]
These aren't really all of the national anthems out there, but you do get to hear a sampling, from Belgium to Turkey, Mexico to Japan. Liner notes provide background and lyrics.

October 5, 2023

Jean Ritchie - The Appalachian Dulcimer: An Instructional Record

Folkways Records FI 8352

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: Folkways Records
Released: 1964
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, Appalachian Music
[Tracklist]
A01 Introduction (01:42)
A02 How to Hold the Dulcimer (01:20)
A03 Tuning Up in the Major Key (01:17)
A04 How to Hold the Noter (02:21)
A05 Playing the Scale (01:29)
A06 Simple Thumb Strum (02:13)
A07 Use of a Pick (00:32)
A08 Singing with Counter-Melody (01:32)
A09 Strumming Variations (02:02)
A10 Picking with the Fingers (01:26)
A11 The Minor Key-Aeolian Mode (03:29)
A12 The Mixolydian Mode (02:49)
A13 The Dorian Mode (02:00)
A14 The Phrygian Mode (02:17)
A15 The Lydian Mode (02:35)
B01 Pleasant Ohio (02:07)
B02 Old Crumley (01:02)
B03 Common Bill (02:16)
B04 Warrenton (02:39)
B05 Civil War March (00:57)
B06 Play-Party Medley (02:24)
B07 Went to See My Susie (02:05)
B08 In Good Old Colony Days (02:48)
B09 Shady Grove (01:20)
[Credits]
Jean Ritchie (dulcimer/vocals)
[Notes]
What better way to learn a musical instrument than from someone who is generally acknowledged to be the foremost performer and authority on that instrument? This recording provides just such an opportunity. Jean Ritchie has long been regarded as a master traditional Appalachian dulcimer player, as well as a superb traditional folksinger. (The Appalachian dulcimer, usually having three or four plucked strings, is not to be confused with the many-stringed hammered dulcimer.) During the first half of this recording, Ritchie provides easy-to-follow spoken instructions for the beginner, with many demonstrations. The second half of the recording includes examples from a variety of traditional dulcimer players, who often sing as well as play; several of them can be heard on Folkways recordings of their own. Liner notes provide a complete transcription of Ritchie's spoken instructions, song lyrics, and a biography.

September 17, 2023

Blowout at Mardi Gras

Cook Records – LP 1084
Jazz bender or insomniacs at the Mardi Gras Lounge on a Saturday night 'til dawn

Format: Vinyl, LP, Mono
Country: United States
Released: 1955
Genre: Jazz, World, & Country
Style: Dixieland Jazz
[Tracklist]
A1 Stumblin'/Sid's Symphony (06:40)
A2 Sympathy (08:08)
A3 Sultry Serenade (04:05)
B1 Three-Thirty-Three (07:01)
B2 I Never Knew (06:48)
B3 You Tell Me Your Dream (05:23)
[Credits]
Sid Davilla (clarinet) Freddie Kohlman (drums) Thomas Jefferson (trumpet) Frog Joseph (trombone) Clenent Tervalon (bass) Joe Thomas (clarinet) Quentin Batiste (piano) Red Camp (piano)
Recorder: Emory Cook, Cover Artwork: Don Smith
[Notes]
With clarinetist Sid Davilla, Freddie Kohlman's Band blows some swingin' Dixieland jazz at the Mardi Gras Lounge in New Orleans. This is a highly energetic groove with irresistible instrumental solos from Davilla (check out the fourth track "Three-Thirty-Three"), trombonist Waldren "Frog" Joseph, trumpeter Thomas Jefferson and pianists Quentin Batiste and Red Camp.

September 14, 2023

Call of Freedom

Folkways Records - FC 7566

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: United States
Released: 1962
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, Struggle & Protest
[Tracklist]
A01 We Shall Overcome (03:08)
A02 Oh Mary (03:33)
A03 No More Auction Block (01:43)
A04 The Gettysburg Address (04:35)
A05 Oh Freedom (01:26)
A06 The Ink is Black (02:18)
A07 We Shall Overcome (01:28)
B01 We Shall Overcome (01:39)
B02 Yankee Doodle (01:36)
B03 Wearing of the Green (01:56)
B04 Star Spangled Banner (01:40)
B05 Happiness Song (American Indian) (01:09)
B06 French Partisan Song (FFI) (01:29)
B07 Israeli War of Independence Song (02:36)
B08 Algerian Freedom Song (FLN) (02:15)
B09 Somalian Freedom Song, Alankan (01:53)
B10 Somalian Freedom Song, Dulkaga (02:36)
B11 Angola Freedom Song (01:00)
B12 Angola Soldiers Song (01:18)
[Credits]
The Pupils of Mrs. Thelma Patel's 6th Grade Class (chorus) Cinnabelle Morris (piano)
Provider and Liner Notes: Moses Asch, Designer: Ronald Clyne
[Notes]
During the Civil Rights Movement in the early 1960s, sixth-grade students at Woodmere Elementary School in Woodmere, NY, recorded a collection of freedom songs and readings from America and foreign lands. Among the tracks are the civil rights anthem "We Shall Overcome," the American national anthem "The Star-Spangled Banner," a recitation of President Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, the Free French Partisan song from World War II, and the "Finjan" (Israeli song of independence from the 1948 Arab-Israeli War). The liner notes, introduced by Folkways Records founder Moses Asch, provide song lyrics and the script of the dramatic readings.

September 12, 2023

Roots: Rhythm and Blues

RBF Records – RBF 20
Produced by Henry Hines and AI White

Format: Vinyl, LP, Compilation
Country: United States
Released: 1966
Genre: Blues, World, & Country
Style: Blues, African American
[Tracklist]
A1 Johnny B. Goode: Al White and his Hi-Liters (02:50)
A2 A Fool in Love: Naomi Bradly (02:36)
A3 Don't Mistreat Me: The Queenettes (02:57)
A4 Baby Fat: The Dominoes (02:32)
A5 The Eel: Johnny Larand and the Internes (02:10)
A6 Testify: The Dominoes (01:44)
A7 Until the End: The Barons (02:31)
A8 I Can Jerk All Night: The Barons (02:09)
B1 On My Way Back Home: Louis Armstrong & His Rainbow of Rhythm (02:15)
B2 There is Something About My Girl That Is Mighty Sweet: Dave Bonds (03:05)
B3 Maybe: The Queenettes (02:47)
B4 There's a Dream for You: The Barons (02:34)
B5 Dream Lover: Phillip and the Originals (02:13)
B6 Make My Life Worth Living: The Queenettes (01:42)
B7 Come on Home: Johnny Larand and the Internes (02:42)
[Credits]
Producer and Liner Notes: Henry Hines and Al White, Designer: Ronald Clyne
[Notes]
This compilation brings together recordings produced by Henry Hines and Al White for Lynn's Productions, and provides a musical snapshot of some of the bands popular in clubs, fraternities, and schools in the 1950s.

September 10, 2023

Charlie Musselwhite

Arhoolie Records – CD 303

Format: CD, Album
Country: United States
Released: 1989
Genre: Blues, Folk, World, & Country
Style: Blues
[Tracklist}
01 It Ain't Right (03:59)
02 Finger Lickin' Good (04:00)
03 Up & Down The Avenue (02:42)
04 Highways Blues (04:59)
05 Wild, Wild Woman (05:02)
06 Takin' My Time (10:44)
07 Crazy For My Baby (02:56)
08 Blue Steel (04:47)
09 Take Me Back (05:21)
10 This Old Nightlife (05:21)
11 Taylor's, Arkansas (02:50)
12 Cut You Loose (04:17)
13 If Trouble Was Money (05:21)
14 On The Spot Boogie (02:39)
[Credits]
Charlie Musselwhite (harmonica/guitar/vocals) Lafayette Leake (piano) Tim Kaihatsu (guitar) Larry Martin (drums) Karl Sevareid (bass)
Producer: Chris Strachwitz, Cover Artwork: Lynda Barry
{Notes}
Charlie Musselwhite earned the nickname "Memphis Charlie" during his years in Memphis, Tennessee, where he learned to play guitar and blues harmonica. Moving to Chicago in 1962 to look for better-paying work, Musselwhite jumped into the blues scene, becoming a regular at blues venues, sitting in and playing with some of the great musicians of the Chicago scene. This album, released in 1989, contains songs recorded in 1971 and 1974 that feature the electrifying blues vocals and harmonica of Memphis Charlie. Liner notes include a biography of the artist.

September 6, 2023

Barbara Dane Sings the Blues with 6 & 12 String Guitar

Folkways Records - FA 2471

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: United States
Released: 1964
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, Struggle & Protest
[Tracklist]
A1 You Don't Know Me (02:59)
A2 I Just Want To Make Love To You (02:14)
A3 Come Back,Baby (02:42)
A4 Stranger's Blues (04:17)
A5 Victim to the Blues (02:08)
A6 'Way Behind the Sun (03:52)
B1 Special Delivery Blues (03:14)
B2 It Hurts Me Too (04:15)
B3 Come On In (There Ain't Nobody Here But Me) (02:23)
B4 Hard Oh Lord (05:08)
B5 Working People's Blues (02:43)
B6 Dink's Blues (Dink's Song) (03:30)
[Credits]
Barbara Dane (guitar/vocals)
Producer and Liner Notes: Irwin Silber, Liner Notes: Barbara Dane, Designer: Ronald Clyne, Photographer: Jim Marshall
{Notes}
Singer, guitarist, record producer, activist, and founder of Paredon Records (now also under the stewardship of Smithsonian Folkways), Barbara Dane was born in 1929 and was still going strong last time we spoke with her. This album was released in 1964, and includes original songs, as well as material by Tampa Red, Willie Dixon, and Ma Rainey.

August 26, 2023

No-No Boy: Empire Electric

Smithsonian Folkways SFW CD 40255

Format: CD, Album
Country: United States
Released: 2023
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk
[Tracklist]
01 The Onion Kings of Ontario! (03:21)
02 Nashville (04:35)
03 Mekong Baby (03:41)
04 Western Empress of the Orient Sawmill (03:31)
05 Jakarta (04:09)
06 Nothing Left But You (04:02) 07 Little Monk (03:29)
08 Sayonara (03:21)
09 Minidoka (03:39)
10 1603 (05:31)
[Credits]
Producer: Julian Saporiti, Liner Notes Editors: James Deutsch and Carla Borden, Designer: Caroline Gut, Mixing Engineer: Seth Boggess, Mastering Engineers: Mike Monseur and Axis Audio
[Notes]
There are seemingly infinite layers of meaning to be found in No-No Boy's third album, Empire Electric. You can listen closely to singer-songwriter Julian Saporiti’s lyrics, which juxtapose true stories of struggle from throughout Asia and its diaspora with Saporiti's own reckoning with intergenerational trauma. You could also let the majesty of Saporiti’s songcraft wash over you, his captivating melodies cloaking those themes in a veneer of hope and ecstasy. But the deepest storytelling happens at the sonic level, as sounds drawn from across the Eastern hemisphere mingle freely with distinctly American instrumentation – banjo and koto, lap-steel and guzheng – while electronically manipulated field recordings of rushing water, chirping birds and other natural sounds ground us in the now. Adventurous and affecting, Empire Electric offers a vision for a new kind of folk music, one that tells unorthodox stories through unorthodox means and finds new pathways through our tangled roots.

August 24, 2023

Fisk Jubilee Singers

Folkways Records – FA 2372

Format: Vinyl, LP
Country: United States
Released: 1955
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: African American Music, Gospel, Sacred
[Tracklist]
A1 I Couldn't Hear Nobody Pray (03:13)
A2 O the Rocks and the Mountains (02:44)
A3 Rockin' Jerusalem (02:16)
A4 When I Was Sinkin' Down (02:36)
A5 You May Bury Me in the East (03:11)
A6 He Arose (04:01)
B1 The Angels Bowed Down (03:37)
B2 Great Camp Meeting (02:07)
B3 Were You There (04:18)
B4 Done Made My Vow to the Lord (02:28)
B5 I'm A-Rolling Through an Unfriendly World (02:09)
B6 Lord, I'm Out Here on Your Word (04:04)
[Credits]
Jubilee Singers (chorus)
Director: John W. Work
[Notes]
Credited with introducing the African-American spiritual to the wider world, the Fisk Jubilee singers made their debut in Cincinnati in 1871. Since then, the ensemble has drawn a host of wonderful young singers to Fisk University, and the Fisk Jubilee Singers have continued to be popular for over a century. This recording is from 1955.

August 23, 2023

Mr. Greg & Cass McCombs Sing and Play New Folk Songs for Children

mithsonian Folkways SFW CD 4508

Format: CD, Album
Country: United States
Released: 2023
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, Children's
[Tracklist]
01 Little Wilma Wiggly Worm (02:22)
02 Friends from All Around the World (Hello Version) (01:54)
03 J-O-B (02:09)
04 Requiem for Ruth Bader Ginsburg (03:01)
05 A Builder’s Got a Hammer and Nails (02:39)
06 Each One of Us (02:39)
07 What’s Your Favorite Kind? (01:23)
08 I’m a Nocturnal Animal (02:31)
09 Paper Airplane (01:23)
10 My Skull is Made Outta Bone (02:35)
11 Wave a Flag for Harvey Milk (03:22)
12 Things That Go in the Recycling Bin (03:05)
13 Roll Around Downtown (02:06)
14 Deciduous Tree (01:26)
15 We Build a Lot of Muscle as We Exercise (01:02)
16 The Sounds that the Letters Make (01:52)
17 Who Are You? (02:39)
18 Together with You (02:33)
19 Oona Louise, My Friend (01:12)
20 Friends from All Around the World (Goodbye Version) (03:48)
[Credits]
Producer and Engineer: Cass McCombs, Liner Notes Editor: James Deutsch, Illustrator: Greg Gardner, Designer: Cooley Design Lab, Engineers: Robby Joseph, Jeremy Brown, Sean Trott, Chris Cohen and Pete Reinige
[Notes]
The tender and curious songs on the first album by songwriter and pre-school teacher Mr. Greg and acclaimed indie chameleon Cass McCombs celebrate the joys of learning and discovery. The pair of longtime friends make connections for young children just beginning to find their own way in the world and for parents regaining their own childlike sensibilities. Set to tunes straight from the mold of Ella Jenkins and Woody Guthrie, the duo sings about the importance of friendship, understanding those different from yourself, and taking care of your body. They also pay musical tribute to heroic figures of bravery and justice like Ruth Bader Ginsberg and Harvey Milk. These songs are bridges to many adventures in the making and include suggested activities for youngsters to supplement their listening and exploration.

August 20, 2023

The Dancing Twenties

Folkways Records – RBF 27

Format: Vinyl, LP, Compilation, Mono
Country: United States
Released: 1976
Genre: Genre: Jazz, Folk, World, & Country
Style: Jazz & Ragtime
[Tracklist]
A1 Charleston: The Isham Jones Orchestra (02:49)
A2 Think of Me: The Isham Jones Orchestra (03:09)
A3 Brown Sugar: The Piccadilly Revels Orchestra (02:43)
A4 Mobile Blues: The Gene Rodemich Orchestra (03:16)
A5 Jump Steady Blues: The Original Six (03:23)
A6 Follow the Swallow: The George Olsen Orchestra (02:45)
A7 Footloose: The Okeh Syncopators (02:44)
A8 Red Hot Mama: The Ray Miller Orchestra (02:52)
B1 I'm All Broken Up Over You: The Ted Weems Orchestra (03:10)
B2 All Muddled Up: The Zez Confrey Orchestra (02:57)
B3 I'm Through Shedding Tears Over You: Guyon's Paradise Orchestra (03:00)
B4 He's a New Kind of Man: The Roseland Dance Orchestra (03:10)
B5 Why Should I Believe in You: The Scranton Sirens Orchestra (02:47)
B6 Longing for You: Warner's Seven Aces (02:51)
B7 You'll Want Me Back Some Day: The Lloyd Finlay Orchestra (02:53)
B8 Spanish Shawl: Edwin J. McEnelly's Orchestra (03:09)
[Credits]
Producer: David. A Jasen, Designer: Ronald Clyne
[Notes]
From the wildly popular Charleston to the foxtrot, the music of the 1920s provided entertainment for dancers throughout the United States and beyond. This compilation presents "on location" recordings of popular dance tunes from the Roaring Twenties.

August 19, 2023

Kentucky Folk Songs and Ballads sung by Logan English

Folkways Records – FA 2136

Format: Vinyl, LP, 10", Album
Country: United States
Released: 1957
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk
[Tracklist]
A1 Bangum and the Boar (01:47)
A2 East Virginia (02:47)
A3 Little Cory (01:45)
A4 Bold Robington's Courtship (02:07)
A5 Wild Bill Jones (03:06)
A6 William and Dinah (03:55)
B1 A Railroader For Me (01:47)
B2 Bruton Town (03:49)
B3 Old Doc Jones (00:38)
B4 Love Henry (02:29)
B5 The Lady and the Glove (02:14)
B6 Durant Jail (04:19)
[Credits]
Logan English (guitar/vocals)
Producer: Kenneth S. Goldstein, Liner Notes: Logan English
[Notes]
Logan English, the grandson of two opera singers, grew up in Kentucky's lowlands, where he learned mountain music from tenant workers on his parents' farm. Every song on this album has roots in English's childhood, and Kenny Goldstein provides informative notes for each track.