England's Charley Patton
Penguin Egg | London, England | 10/10/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Carthy has long been considered the governor of English folk music and this 1982 recording is as good a place to find out why his reputation is so high. The rhythmic drone of his guitar playing and the plaintive, plainspoken style of his singing, create an uncompromising and heartfelt commitment to the traditional songs he performs. This is a million miles away from the singalong-stereotypes of the Spinners-Dubliners-Corries etc. Carthy sings and plays with passion and depth that would not disgrace a 30s Delta blues artist, such as Charley Patton. Whether harrowing (Old Horse) or humorous (Friar in the Well), there is a stark beauty in Carthy's performance that gives full justice to the songs he sings and the lives of the people and culture he celebrates. A wonderful album. The governor of English folk, indeed.
The rest of the musicians are not credited, but John Kirkpatrick appears on accordion, and, unsurprisingly, is excellent. There is also the trumpet playing of Howard Evans which is also excellent. Good stuff, all round.
"