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Good old (very old) country!

Lee Hartsfeld | Central Ohio, United States | 11/22/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This very enjoyable CD features thirties-style country by Carson Robison and his Pioneers, Gene Autry, and Jack Savage and his Cowboys. Recording dates are not given, so don't quote me. The Robison sides are, by far, the highlights of the disc, ranging from "Home on the range," sung to a different tune than we're used to hearing, to a wonderful version of "Hallelujah I'm a bum" (a parody of "Revive us again," and employing the same melody). Robison's band performs in a vaguely Western-Swing style, almost like a punk version of The Sons of the Pioneers. Their "Peg-Leg Jack," probably a familiar text and tune to those familiar with Anglo-American folk ballads, is very, very similar to the Phil Harris novelty classic "The Thing" of many years later. Both are continuing-story comic songs in 6/8 featuring a hapless protaganist getting deeper and deeper in trouble, however dissimilar the narrative details. The sound quality varies considerably; the Robison sides are quite listenable and the Savage sides (check out the excellent "Tumbling Tumbleweeds") are acceptable, but the Autry sides are a sonic D-minus. These are either from worn discs or worn movie soundtracks. Charly has elected not to provide the recording dates or sources, maybe as a way of saving ink. But people interested in vintage country tend to be interested in such archeological details. At any rate, the five stars are for the excellent Carson Robison sides; at this price, half of a good CD is worth it."