Smithsonian Folkways Recordings has re-issued the recordings of the New Lost City Ramblers (1958 – 1973) in a new 3 CD set.
This set features two previously released CDs of the Ramblers classic Folkways recordings: The Early Years, 1958-1962 with the original trio, and Out Standing in Their Field: Volume II, 1963-1973, with Tracy Schwarz replacing Tom Paley. A newly compiled third disc, Where Do You Come From? Where Do You Go?
The NLCR were Mike Seeger, John Cohen, Tom Paley and later Tracy Schwartz. They were young, college educated, urban enthusiasts of the country music that was first recorded by industry pioneers and folklorists during the 1920’s and 30’s. The members of the New Lost City Ramblers continued the tradition of “field recording”, and brought many musicians they discovered (or re-discovered) to share the stages of their city concerts. Dock Boggs, Clarence Ashley, Elizabeth Cotton, Maybelle Carter, Cousin Emmy, Dewey Balfa, Roscoe Holcomb, the McGee Brothers are among many traditional musicians the New Lost City Ramblers helped introduce to new audiences during the Folk boom of the 1960’s.
“The Little Girl and the Dreadful Snake”
From a bluegrass perspective, this collection is important in that it contains music that directly preceded bluegrass. The New Lost City Ramblers help us peel back the curtain, and appreciate songs and styles that led to the bluegrass sound. This collection is highly recommended.
Editor: See the Smithsonian site.
Please enjoy as our gift three free downloads from 50 Years: Where Do You Come From? Where Do You Go?
