This is a needed tribute to Jack Thorpe! It is full of good insights into the person he was---and that is much more than I've ever been able to find out about him before before. And it looks more than fine too; it's an impressive work of exceptional graphic design. I do wish it was a bit closer to Christmas because it would be a perfect gift to give someone who needs to have their knowledge of western balladry and folk songs brought up several notches. The CD is respectfully and lovingly done as well. Rex and Mark have managed to keep the vocal and instrumental backup for these fine songs musically right on. By that I mean that they retain the authenticity in their presentations while, at the same time presenting a musical experience that non-initiated listeners can thoroughly enjoy. They put the song first. The tale the song tells is honored and foremost here. ---I think that's just about the way these songs ought to be showcased. The book is not all of the songs in the 1908 one, but it is a very nice sampling from that important volume.

Art