Customer Reviews

The Morning Glory Ramblers

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
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The Blakes' resumes, especially Norman's, are truly astounding. Having begun his career as a string player (mandolin, guitar, dobro, etc.) in the mid-50s, he became a pivotal sideman and featured player for Johnny and June Carter Cash, Bob Dylan (during his "Nashville Skyline" sessions), Kris Kristofferson, Joan Baez, John Hartford, and many others. In addition, the couple have recorded numerous albums, solo, duet, and with partners like Tony Rice, for Rounder, Shanachie and other fine labels. This, the couple's first duet album in 8 years, continues their lifelong essay of classic country-folk Americana, both old and new.

The Blake's strum and pick their dual acoustics as they sing solo and in harmony from the catalogs of the Blue Sky Boys, Carter Family, and Luke the Drifter, as well as more recent tunes from Laurie Lewis and Jerry Faires. They unite several times for sacred songs common to many hymnals, yet surprisingly scarce in anyone else's active repertoire. Much like A.P. Carter, the Blake's are collectors of songs, and, ultimately, history. Their performances are lively and loving, restoring the vitality to these decades- (sometimes century-) old tunes.

You must know that I am an ardent fan of Nancy and Norman Blake. I own all of their cd's and have seen them in concert several times. Morning Glory Ramblers continues their long string of excellent music together. Nancy and Norman are blessed with voices that blend together perfectly. These voices combined with their ability to play a variety of instruments result in this excellent cd that will be difficult to remove from your player. I am not a musician, but this album, Morning Glory Ramblers, is a favorite of mine. I'll wager that if you buy this album by Norman and Nancy, it will not be your last. If Norman and Nancy read this, I hope on a future cd Nancy will have the lead vocal on a song or two. Norman, she has a wonderful voice, too.

Bluegrass and modern country music are worlds apart. This is what real country music used to be. The tunes are easy to pick up. I found myself wanting to do a line dance and sing along. ( And I stink at line dancing) This is warm fuzzy feel good music.

Other lesser know releases include: "Be Ready Boys" w/ Rich O'Brien, "High Lonesome Cowboy" - Don Edwards, Peter Rowan, and Tony Rice, "Saddle Songs 2" The Last of the Troubadours - Don Edwards. Western Jubilee/Dualtone