I mention this in case McCaslin and Ringer lovers may have missed it. Their 1978 classic 'The Bramble and the Rose' has been reissued recently on CD by Philo - Philo CD PH 1055. It holds up very well indeed after more than 20 years. In addition to the fine title track, there are cracker performances of 'Oh Death', 'Copperfields', 'Rank Stranger' etc. It's only the second time that the late Jim Ringer has made it on to CD.

Bear Family has also issued a CD of Mary's early recordings (1967 and 1968): 'Rain: The Lost Album' BCD 16232 AH. Not in the same league as 'Bramble' - a bit precious sounding at times - but pleasant covers of Cohen, Buckley, Nesmith etc.

--Stewie.