I wanted to let Mudcat know that the CD re-issue of the RED CLAY RAMBLERS' 1979 live album CHUCKIN' THE FRIZZ is now available, as well as their 1981 release HARD TIMES, as well as 1980's MEETING IN THE AIR - "Songs of the Carter Family sung and played by Tommy Thompson, Mike Craver and Jim Watson". These CDs are all on sale on-line for $15.95 each at http://www.mikecraver.com/store.html -- the price includes FREE SHIPPING to all US locations, however international rates apply to UK, EU, AU, CA etc. (info at above site.)

" Any true Ramblers fan knows that CHUCKIN' THE FRIZZ marks the band's finest hour on record, a well-produced live recording of the rollicking 1979 lineup (Watson, Thompson, Hicks, Herrick and Craver) performing at the old Cat's Cradle. This is a superior string band at the height of its powers, spinning out traditionals and originals with inspired, infectious fervor." ---NORTH CAROLINA INDEPENDENT WEEKLY

"From the first notes of their 1981 landmark release HARD TIMES' opening track "Chesapeake Bay," it's clear the Red Clay Ramblers were not your average old time music ensemble. Dixieland horns, barrelhouse piano, barbershop harmonies and driving stringband rhythms all combine for an entertaining crash course in American music. Whether sublime ("Wind and Rain") or downright ridiculous ("Chicken"), the Red Clay Ramblers bring their virtuosity, intensity and enthusiasm to every song they play." --- ROUNDER ARCHIVE

"MEETING IN THE AIR may well be the first tribute album to the Carter Family... and a fine album it is."
----OLD TIME HERALD