In These Times

Peter Paul & Mary | Format: Audio CD

Product Details

• Audio CD (February 24, 2004)
• Number of Discs: 1
• Label: Rhino
• ASIN: B0000DZ3CL
• In-Print Editions: MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (22 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #102,801 in Music (See Top 100 in Music)

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com

Peter, Paul and Mary released their first LP in 1962, and--apart from an early-'70s hiatus--they have been going strong ever since. In These Times, their 2004 release, doesn't really tinker with the formula that propelled them into the spotlight all those years ago, but if the canny blend of traditional tunes, social commentary, and contemporary compositions still works, why change it? Their voices no longer have the vigor and clarity they once did, but on songs like "Jesus on the Wire," a stark mediation on the death of Matthew Shepard composed by Thea Hopkins, or the folk classic "Wayfaring Stranger," the whispery tone and wobbling harmonies add poignancy to the hard-earned authority of the performances. In its basic format, In These Times recalls Peter, Paul and Mary's earlier recordings, but the songs themselves, most of which were composed in the last few years, show that the trio has successfully resisted the urge to wallow in nostalgia. --Michael John Simmons

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

97 of 101 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Still Conscientious After All These Years!, February 25, 2004

By 

J. Jackson "climaction" (Charlottesville, VA United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: In These Times (Audio CD)

Peter, Paul and Mary transformed themselves from Greenwich Village folk singers to part of the nation's social conscience when they marched with Dr. Martin Luther King in the early `60s. Their history includes taking stands for civil rights (both in the U.S. and later in South Africa, among other places), the labor movement, peace in Southeast Asia, and equal rights. Add respect for all humans in schools, communities, and society along with peace in the Middle East to that list and you begin to form a picture of how this trio has refused to mellow as time marches on.

"In These Times" covers the gamut of the struggle for rights and respect from its Woody Guthrie inspired opening medley to the poignant portrayal of the Mathew Shepard tragedy in Wyoming in "Jesus Is on the Wire". "Don't Laugh At Me" has become the anthem of various movements, from bully-proofing our schools to teaching tolerance in everyday human relations.

The selections on this CD pay tribute to PP&M's folk roots with a rousing "Wayfaring Stranger". "It's Magic", a perennial Noel Paul Stookey favorite in their concert dates, describes life's indescribable moments and why they should be left to be that way. Closing with "Oh, Had I A Golden Thread" serves as a nod to "The Hammer Song" co-composer Pete Seeger, and bookends the CD perfectly.

The voices are 40-plus years older than the self-titled debut album of Peter, Paul and Mary, but resonate with wisdom and caring from the ages. Peter Yarrow has never crooned more beautifully than "Don't Laugh At Me". Mary Travers' declarative spirit has never rung truer than in "Have You Been to Jail for Justice". Noel? Well, the guy is just good!

There are many ways to vote in this country. Soon, we'll be asked to choose between candidates, one of whom wants to amend our constitution to make it illegal for two people who love each other to marry. We can vote for that man and his policies or for another who opposes those policies. We can also vote, and show solidarity, by buying this CD and sharing it with our friends. Many of them will be surprised at its fiery message. Many more will be amazed by the incredible quality of its performances. And many will want to share it with their friends, and so on...

How can we keep from singing?

25 of 26 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars "Is it Possible???", July 23, 2004

By 

L. D Sears (El Paso, Texas USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: In These Times (Audio CD)

Is it possible after so many years of performance and recording that it is still possible to produce fresh and lasting material? In the case of "In These Times" PP&M have proven that with experience and with living comes true wisdom. There is material on this CD that deserves to join all of the other songs for which this group is so rightfully famous. Listen to "Some Walls," "It's Magic," "Oh, Had I a Golden Thread" and most importantly, "Don't Laugh at Me" and hear for yourself. I bought this CD out of loyalty and admiration for these three extraordinary human beings. But I listen to it over and over out of the sheer joy of listening to people who understand and communicate the magic that it is possible in human life. BRAVO!

17 of 17 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Peter Paul And Mary "In These TImes", April 27, 2004

By 

Jeremy Ferrantelli (ROCKFORD IL.) - See all my reviews

This review is from: In These Times (Audio CD)

I have been a fan of Peter Paul And Mary for 12 years now. I never knew that they could still be talentend even today 43 years later. On this album the song "Don't Laugh At Me" speaks directly to the subject on respect, teaches people not to make fun of people's race or what they where on their teeth such as braces to make their teeth get stronger. I basicly like all the selections They believe in JUSTICE,PEACE, AND DIGNITY of every person. I strongly urge all people who visit this website to ORDER this album today. ITS GREAT!!!