Search - Mimi Farina & Richard :: Celebrations for a Grey Day

Fine '60s offering is folk music plus

Tyler Smith | Denver, CO United States | 10/25/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

""Celebrations for a Grey Day" offers some interest merely because of its creators: Richard Farina penned a quintessential '60s novel, "Been Down So Long It Looks Like Up to Me" before dying young in a motorcycle accident; his wife Mimi is the sister of Joan Baez. But does the music offer interest and does it hold up after 35 years? Yes, it does.The duo put together an interesting sound with Richard's dulcimer and drone-like vocal playing against Mimi's guitar and lovely, crystalline voice. The instrumentals achieve an Eastern flavor, particularly on "V," which gives a nod to Thomas Pynchon in Richard's notes to the album. There is poetic political protest in "Michael, Andrew, and James," a lament for the three murdered civil rights workers; sly satire of prejudice in "Tommy Makem Fantasy"; and even a mildly funky excursion, "Reno Nevada."The only regret I have in listening to it over the years has been that Mimi wasn't given more room. Her vocals are a major addition on "Reno Nevada," and the wistful "Pack up Your Sorrows," but she doesn't get a lead vocal, which is disappointing because her voice is intoxicating -- probably the equal of her more-famous sister.Many albums that I enjoyed during my youth have not come close to standing the test of time. This one does and is well worth revisiting or discovering for the first time."

A true celebration!

Robert L. Champ | 03/16/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I first heard Richard Farina playing the dulcimer on Judy Collins' "Carry it On." My next encounter with his art was reading his book "Been Down So Long.." I found this album in the bins of a used record store and was moved by the simple musical arrangements and lyrics that are both socially relevant and deeply personal. Richard's dulcimer and Mimi's guitar provide the foundation that allow their complimentary voices to soar. Richard Farina was destined for greatness as a poet, author, and musician. He died way too young. This album stands as his great contribution to American music!"

A classic "must have" Vanguard recording.

cancel | 08/22/1998

(5 out of 5 stars)

""Celebrations" is a classic example of the Vanguard style both in terms of artistic merit and recording excellence. While the tragedy of Richard Farina's untimely death surrounds the the music with a haunting aura, the selections easily stand on their own in terms of the artistry of husband and wife. Particularly attention is called to "The Falcon" and "Pack Up Your Sorrows." There is little enough of Richard's work available today. This collection is required listening."