Customer Reviews

The Songs of Woody Guthrie, Vol. 1 & 2

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I had not encountered Joel Rafael before, and more or less stumbled on this album as an Amazon MP3. I took a chance on it, despite the single negative review, and was blown away. The performances are consistently smooth and mellow, and not unduly 'folksy', and you can imagine Woody Guthrie himself sounding almost exactly like this if only it were possible to get hold of 'modern' recordings of his performances. Another reviewer has taken away stars because of a marketing issue, while admitting that the music itself is unmatched as an evocation of Woody Guthrie's heritage, and I think that rating tactic is unfair to the audience. The music in this album is outstanding. If you admire Guthrie's contribution to the American folk (and more) music genre, and want to hear his work performed with respect, skill, and artistry, buy this album.

Decided to play this as part of my fourth of July Celebration. Woody Guthrie was as good as it gets and Joel Rafaels's interpretations are nothing less then brilliant.

Joel Rafael is one of the best singer songwriters I have come across. His dedication to Woody Guthrie's work is superb bar none. So why did I give this album a one-star rating- because it does not reflect either the performer of Guthrie's work. It is crass marketing- two previously released albums encased in a wrap around cover, not even bothering tho change the original album covers now labelled as "Vol 1 and 2." It is a real shame to see this type of behavior from the music industry.