Search - Harmonica Frank Floyd :: The Great Medical Menagerist

A True Musical Gem

peter krampert | eharmonica.net | 02/17/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"One of the great American musical sources that has disappeared is that of the medical show. These traveling shows were used to hawk patent medicines and featured entertainers to draw in crowds. Frank Floyd was such an entertainer.Also known as "The Silly Kid", Floyd was self-taught on the harmonica and began working medicine shows at the age of twelve traveling around the country. He played guitar, sang and played the harmonica. While most Folk musicians play the harmonica on a neckbrace, Floyd would simply pop the harmonica into his mouth and pick out the notes using his tongue. He copuld also play two harmonicas at once. One with his mouth and one with his nose.This CD, also titled "The Great Medical Menagarist", is an time capsule of Frank's music. It is full of humor and homespun wit. His music was bawdy, filled with suggestive lyrics and I'd be careful before playing this CD in the presence of youngsters. Overall it is a wonderful glimpse into an American that has long since ceased to exist.For Folklorists, this album is an absolute must. For harmonica players, I'd definitely suggest that you give this recording a listen."