Customer Reviews

The Wind That Shakes the Barley

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

 

 

The Wind That Shakes The Barley is one of John McCutcheon's earliest recordings. It features some truly wonderful hammer dulcimer playing in imaginitive arrangements.

A must listen.

I saw John McCutcheon playing this music when this album came out. It was a magical experience. He was learning from the Carter Family at the time and played around locally where I lived. A must have for any fan of the hammer dulcimer and/or mountain music. He was so far ahead then, he sounds current now.

Years ago I first bought this album at the Southern Highland Handicrafts Guild on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Loved it then, love it now. The album is worn out, so I'm happy to get the CD version. This was the seminal album, I believe, that showed what someone could do with a hammer dulcimer. It is peaceful, yet invigorating music. It can be enjoyed as background music or for concentrated listening. I often listen to it while I work.

An early recording of hammer dulcimer music by an already master of the instrument moves this instrument out of the "ghetto" of folk, etc., and into the mainstream, whether the mainstream knew it or not. Irish music has always been popular, on guitar and fiddle. Hammer dulcimer has been relegated to background accompaniment, a member of the chorus. Not so in John's hands and heart. This is a front rank, solo instrument capable of incredible range and nuance when played by someone who knows where the music can go and where the instrument can take it. Worth every penny and each minute spent listening. Here, the sum is truly greater than the individual songs.

John McCutcheon is one of those rare folk musician/song writers who can actually make a living from folk music. All over the country his concerts are sold out. Here is a new sound for him -- all instrumental, and a lot with hammered dulcimer. Great tunes are mixed with outstanding musicianship and feeling