Search - Erik Darling :: Child Child

Erik gets better with age!

Sean O'Reilly | Farmington, MI USA | 08/01/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is Erik's first "solo" album since the sixties. He was with the Tarriers, The Weavers, The Rooftop Singers, plus a couple of 1 album groups. He was one of the most influential performers in the early sixties - playing banjo on dozens of records, opening up new musical vistas on his solo recordings, bringing the 12-string guitar into the limelight - inspiring a mob of aspiring folk singer/players. This album is a lovely mix of old and new - old songs like "Sail Away Ladies", "Old Ben Johnson", "Jay Gould's Daughter, .." and some of Erik's own songs, "A Place in the Hills", "It Doesn't Matter at all..." and especially the title song, "Child, Child". Erik provides his own harmonies, plays both guitar and banjo - this is him through and through. All of his musical abilities blossom on this one - you'll listen to it over and over and find yourself humming the last one you listened to. A must for old Erik fans and great introduction for new ones."

Erik Darling at his best!!

Sean O'Reilly | Farmington, MI USA | 07/15/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Erik Darling is best known for his work in the '60's with the Tarriers (Banana Boat Song, the Weavers and the Rooftop Singers. However, his best and most creative work came out on a few solo albums (out of print) and a marvelous LP in the mid-to-late '70's called "The Possible Dream". All of the songs on that album were written and performed by Erik and Pat Street. It was something of a departure from his previous work - but, with a little listening, it became clear that Erik's creativity and ingenuity had flowered - virtually every song on that record is a masterpiece. Unfortunately it is also unavailable. "Child, Child" expands this trend, even though it is probably 25 years since "The Possible Dream". The songs are fun, clever, touching, profound, and just wonderful to listen to. Erik hasn't lost anything instrumentally either - his guitar work is simple, yet sophisticated and provides a full platform for his voice(s). About the only thing that would improve the CD would be one or two more songs with the banjo. Of the 14 numbers on the CD there are several brand new works, including the title song and my current favorite, "A Place in the Hills". There are some new arrangements of old favorites (Old Ben Johnson, Jay Gould's Daughter, Cotton-Eyed Joe, ..) and some older Erik Darling numbers (The Banana Boat Song, Walk Right In, and one from the "Possible Dream" - It Doesn't Matter at All If It Rains On Me") I confess to having been an Erik Darling fan for over 40 years. But if you like music with meaning, fun to listen to and masterful musicianship, you can't help loving this CD the more you hear it."

Child - Child

loosethreads | Finger Lakes NY United States | 07/25/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD is a long over due addition to my collection. Child Child is a haunting song that sneaks into the corners of your mind at odd moments. Like the best music or literature it gives more than just pleasure at the moment; it leaves you with ideas and melodys that come back to be examined again and again. Erik's bluesy voice and instrumental mastery combine with his special perspective. An CD to play over and over again."