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Michael Johnathon This is a fabulous collection of classic American folk songs presented in a remarkably refreshing manner. In Michael's own words, " I wanted the WoodSongs album to take a respectful step backward, and a giant leap forward, all at the same time. He has succeeded admirably by adding Appalachian legend Jean Ritchie to perform on his high octane version of 'Shady Grove'. Banjo legend J.D. Crowe, adds some hot licks on 'Shady Grove' and Colista's Jam'. Another folk legend, Odetta joins Johnathon on the beautiful 'New Wood ( Gone, Gonna rise Again)'. Homer Ledford contributes some of the finest mandolin flat-picking I've ever heard on 12 of the sixteen songs represented here. Also noteworthy are the fine bass playing of Tom Covello and Ruth McLain Smith on upright bass; Kali Penn on fiddle, and the beautiful cello work of Jacob Szekely on 'New Wood'. Joe Gierlach is every bit as quick and tasty on dobro as Tut Taylor on his best day. Rick Marks keeps the bottom end together with his excellent understated drumming. Ruth McLain Smith , Jenny Johnson and Frank Schaap do a fine job on background vocals, and last but not least Jeff Yurkowski does some fine harmonica playing on Woody Guthrie's "Pastures of Plenty. The sonics are nothing short of astonishing in their depth, breadth, lucidity, and impact, with the vocals and instruments sounding like they're right there in your living room. This is one of those rare recordings that simply couldn't be better. It's music from the heart and soul. There is also a fine softcover book written by Michael Jonathon by the same name ' Wood Songs A Folksinger's Social Commentary, Cook Manual & Song Book which is a fine companion to the album. The book is 176 pages, with music to all 16 songs, over 40 photos, poems, stories, social commentaries, and some of the coolest recipes on the planet. Liner notes were penned by Pete Seeger and Don McLean. The book has been described as "Mother Earth News meets USA Today". information: email: poetusa@aol.com PoetMan Records USA |
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