Chicago's Old Town School of Folk Music is one of the only places you can go to study the art and history of American folk music and dance. For 50 years, the Old Town School has operated in the heart of Chicago—a town known for its jazz, blues, theater, rock and other forms of music.
Classics Tunes Performed by Contemporary Artists
On Old Town School of Folk Music Songbook, Vols. 2 & 3, they collect 42 of the most timeless, memorable folk songs in the history of the craft. Included here are contemporary versions of songs by legends like Woody Guthrie ("Lonesome Road," "Hard Traveling," etc.), songs without any definable origins, traditional melodies like "Home on the Range," performed brightly by newer voices on the American folk music scene and the school's instructors.Most notable are songs like "Nine Pound Hammer," performed here by Scott Besaw. The song's a cappella vocal break is punctuated by a rolling, supporting bass vocal and the chugging guitar strumming that powers the tune along. Eric Noden's "Down by the Riverside" is a great harmonica-driven romp of a song, showcasing the tune's inherent air of celebration and excitement. The recording itself comes across like a casual song circle, with Noden cuing his fellow players for solos and instrumental breaks.
Old Town School Songbook Highlights
Eric Lugosh’s "Good News" is a fun, accessible song of hope and praise. Cathie Guthrie and Amy Nelson give a lovely Carter Family-ish performance on "Wildwood Flower," which is known for the Carters’ rendition. Ted Parrish performs "(When Things Go Wrong) It Hurts Me Too," a ripping blues tune well-suited for Parrish’s grumbly, growling voice. Foghorn Stringband’s "John Henry" is exceptionally tight and one of the most stand-out performances on the disc. And Steve Doyle’s "Git Along Little Doggie" is another highlight of the disc, with excellent harmonies on the chorus and a personable energy that feels like a live performance.The Bottom Line
There are many songs worth remembering on this double-disc set, which includes two of four volumes in the Old Town School's songbook series. They recall some of the best, most timeless classic folk songs, displaying the breadth of styles, themes and histories that have touched American history and culture. That these songs are still relevant is powerful enough, but the performances on this disc showcase not only the songs' relevancy but also their ability to evolve and adapt to ever-changing musical landscapes.
