Ramble On

Since it's been ten years ago since picker extraordinaire Jack Rose left us, the fine folks at Tompkins Square decided a special commemoration was in order. The resulting tribute rings like a bell and what's more, provides ample opportunity to discover some exciting new names on the solo guitar front.

Mariano Rodriguez - Raga For Dr. Ragtime

Play That Thing, Boy

A Blind Blake cover by the late great picker Jack Rose, who was clearly having a truckload of fun recording this beauty. Want to hear the original, too? Thought so.

Jack Rose - West Coast Blues
Blind Blake - West Coast Blues

They Shine

I do realize that christmas is just a kiss away and 2017 just around the corner and yes you just can't wait to see the famous FTSOTS end of year list... But please be patient, folks. Come snow or come shine, let's observe some other faves first.

This years must-reads:

Josh Rosenthal - The Record Store Of The Mind

Bob Mehr - Trouble Boys: The True Story Of The Replacements

This year's blazing (re-) issues:

Bonnie Prince Billy - Pond Scum
Bonnie Prince Billy - When Thy Song Flows Through Me

Tim Buckley - Lady, Give Me Your Key
Tim Buckley - Marigold
Terry Allen - Juarez
Terry Allen - Dogwood

Bunny Wailer - Solomonic Singles 1: Tread Along 1969-1976
The Wailers - Arabs Oil Weapon
Jack Rose - Opium Musick
Jack Rose - Linden Ave Stomp
various artists - Cosmic American Music

Jeff Cowell - Not Down This Low

Love Is A Rose

If I need soothing music, I often turn to the works of Jack Rose, the acoustic picker who died way too young back in 2009. For some reason or other, I found that his modern take on John Fahey's American Primitivism works a treat aboard airplanes, and especially when you're leaving a place you don't really want to say goodbye to. Renowned underground labels of love VHF and Three Lobed will soon make sure six of his albums are back in print, including the mighty Opium Musick from 2003, which happens to be my fave. Don't say I didn't warn you.

Jack Rose - Yaman Blues

Dragons & Owls

I am a brother to dragons and a companion to owls. Job said that, but I sure can relate. I'm southbound tomorrow, looking for some sunshine, but will write the odd post provided there's WiFi on the menu somewhere. As usual, you won't get a christmas ditty out of me, but I do wish you all a feliz navidad.

The Mighty Upsetter - Flames Of The Dragon

Jack Rose - Song For The Owl

Beasts Of Bourbon - Chase The Dragon

The Champs - Nite Owl