Wow!!!!!

In the mail yesterday, I received my copy of Debra's new CD "Dad's Dinner Pail" on the Falling Mountain label. I have been anxiously waiting for this CD since Debra mentioned the project to me last year. It was worth the wait!!!!!!   

The songs on this CD are from the Helen Hartness Flanders collection. If Debra is online, perhaps she will give us some details as to how the CD came to be. Briefly, the project was started when Helen Flander's grandaughter approached Debra about recording some of the songs. Debra spent a great deal of time studying, listening to the source recordings, and choosing the songs for this magnificent CD.

I am always enthralled when an artist breathes life into songs that illustrate how folk music is a living tradition.   The settings that Debra has chosen honors the songs - simple settings that allow the beauty of the songs to shine through, which in turn honors the work that Helen Flanders put into her monumental collection.

In my estimation, Debra is the head of the class for American folk singers and a reminder of why folk music first captured my imagination.   She is blessed with a beautiful voice and a deep appreciation for the tradition. Too often, folksingers repeat songs by rote, with Debra each song is a new story to be shared and experienced.   

Debra has some fine help. Micheal DeLalla's subtle guitar playing sets the pace for the CD and allows Debra to showcase the songs. Other guests include Tabby Finch who adds hammered dulcimer and accordion on two cuts. I particulary enjoyed hearing Debra sing two songs with John Roberts. Stirring!!!

I urge everyone to check out this CD.

Debra, when do we get Volume 2?????? :)