Review: This Mudcat CD set

Subject: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: kendall
Date: 08 Dec 02 - 09:04 PM

My set arrived yesterday, and, all I can say is, I feel for those who don't have it. This is good stuff, and well worth the price.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 08 Dec 02 - 09:31 PM

Yayyy!! Listen to da man!!

Thank you, Skipper -- your opinion carries great importance with me!

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: mg
Date: 08 Dec 02 - 09:47 PM

I am trying to find the permathread or whatever that gives us the contents of each CD.. I know it has been posted a dozen times but I can't find it. I looked in Mudcat Market and the pulldown list and here and there....could it be put in a really prominent place at the top so people like me can find it and eventually order it?

mg

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Joe Offer
Date: 08 Dec 02 - 10:24 PM

Hi, Mary - I added this thread to the list of crosslinked Mudcat CD threads. Each thread is named for a color, and each of the five colors has a thread - with the names of the songs in the first message of that thread.
-Joe Offer-

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 08 Dec 02 - 11:22 PM

Mary:

The promotional page Tweed made is here, which you should be able to reach by clicking the URL.

There is a cross-link at the top to a thread called "For Sure Order Info" which contains a similar lot of information.

Hope this helps!


A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Tweed
Date: 09 Dec 02 - 06:28 AM

Here are links to each of the CD's cover/playlists.
*ORCHID*
*PLUM*
*ROSE*
*STRAWBERRY*
*VIOLET*

Confused? Can't make up your minds? *Just order the entire set!!*

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 09 Dec 02 - 10:47 AM

I concur with Tweed. FLOOD DICK with orders for the WHOLE set.

I mean there are DIFFERENT SONGS on every one of these disks!!

So there ya go!! :>)

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Homeless
Date: 09 Dec 02 - 11:43 AM

I've added a link on the Mudcat Market back to Tweed's page, so anyone going there will be able to find it.
(Thanx for the idea, Mary)

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 09 Dec 02 - 09:36 PM

Thanks, H'Less!! (BTW -- in case you didn't know it, the original art work on the cover of your Mudcat CD's was the brilliant offspring of Homeless' own fevered brain!! ) :>)


More the merrier, I allus say.


A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 09 Dec 02 - 10:13 PM

I dunno - "orchid, plum, rose, strawberry and violet". Violet is the only one that made it to the rainbow... I haven't even got a clue what colour "orchid" is anyway - don't orchids come in all kinds of colours? I'm a primary colours man meself.

Not to worry - I'm looking forward to getting the set. Though I'll not be allowed to listen to the tracks until Christmas or after. Someone in California give Amos a pat on the back or somewhere.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 09 Dec 02 - 10:52 PM

 
1) orchid. The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language: Fourth Edition. 2000.
...The flower of any of these plants, especially one cultivated for ornament. 2. A pale to light purple, from grayish to purplish pink to strong reddish purple.

Ouch -- thanks, Kevin!!! :>)


A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Ebbie
Date: 10 Dec 02 - 12:44 AM

Wow. I'm now on the third CD first time 'round. So many to love! I'm just blown away by Rick Fielding's 'Sing with the Angels'- it'll be the first one I'll be playing multiple times I've no doubt.

Hey, Rick (and others!), is it OK to learn the songs and share with other people? With proper attribution, of course. These songs will keep me busy many a moon.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Genie
Date: 10 Dec 02 - 03:09 AM

McGrath, Hugh (The Banjoest) is gonna jam with Amos this Sunday, so he can give ol' Aim a big pat on the whatever or kiss or somethin' for you.

Genie

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 10 Dec 02 - 03:59 PM

And I am offering free kisses to anyone who puts in an order for a full set between RIGHT NOW and this time on Christmas day!!!

(Before you flood me with testimony, I warn you I am checking with Dick on all claims!!) :>)

Travel not included!! These kisses may be exchanged for heat-seeking hugs or firm handshakes (for those of a Republican bent) at the preference of the winners. Maximum duration 240 seconds except by mutual consent. Winners must be at least 18 years of age to claim prizes other than handshakes. No further implications, express or implicit, will be assumed by either party except as the result of separate negotiation.

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Ebbie
Date: 10 Dec 02 - 04:08 PM

(Hey, Amos! Your Walla Walla Woman Blues is great! But have you ever been there? 'Wallowa' would be another great alliteration. Maybe 'Wallowa WA Woman'?)

Well, I have PMed Dick for my second order. QUESTION: If we take seconds, does that mean there may not be enough for everyone else's firsts?

By the way, I am dense- but I don't find a straight path to ordering. I checked a number of threads [e-mail] gets one to the Camsco website but no direct link to the Mudcat CDs. What am I missing?

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 10 Dec 02 - 04:14 PM

Ebbie:

There's no online ordering capability at the CAMSCO site; they accept phone calls, PMs to "dick greenhaus" or email to [e-mail], or orders by mail. Go for it!

THe ordering information is on the link to the Tweed built promotional page at http://tweedsblues.net/mudcd/mudcatcd.html.


(see post above for blicky).

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 10 Dec 02 - 04:16 PM

..and I am really glad you liked the Walla Walla Woman Blues. No -- I haven't been there, but I've been close. (The song was written to order for an actual Walla Walla Woman.)

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Willa
Date: 10 Dec 02 - 05:27 PM

My Rose and Orchid CDs arrived yesterday and I've just heard them through. I'll have to order the rest of the set after Christmas; they're great! Thanks to all who've put in so much time and effort on this project.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Rick Fielding
Date: 11 Dec 02 - 11:11 AM

Hi Ebbie. Feel free to learn it, sing it, and even forget the words the way I do!

Also feel free to get in touch with Borealis Records and buy the whole album if ya want to.

Cheers

Rick

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 11 Dec 02 - 12:17 PM

I've been trying to get through to Mudcat since 8am BST (it is now 17.08) to say my set arrived today despite having the wrong house number on, and I've been listening all day. It would be unfair to single anyone out though Reggie Miles and Tweed's contributions were most to my taste.
The array of talent further convinced me my role is to be audience and clown rather than performer!
Well done all, especially Amos (next year he'll take over Sony Corp?)RtS

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 11 Dec 02 - 12:31 PM

ROger, if you'd'a sent a cut, it would have been there shoulder to shoulder with the others.

Anyway, glad you liked 'em!!!!


A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 11 Dec 02 - 12:37 PM

...if you'd heard my "singing", Amos, you wouldn't make rash promises like that!
RtS
(A voice made for mime)

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 11 Dec 02 - 12:51 PM

LOL!!! The good thing about mime-singing (air-singing?) is you are always right on key!! (There's a deep Zen truth in there somewhere but I don't have time to ferret it out!).

Well, send me an instrumental and we'll get Morty or Hesp or Margaret to dub a voice track over it, next time!! Angels all!


A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Kim C
Date: 11 Dec 02 - 01:25 PM

Amos, do you kiss belly dancing tattooed Libertarians?

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 11 Dec 02 - 01:36 PM

ANywhere you want, sweetie!! I've heard you sing! :>)

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Mudlark
Date: 11 Dec 02 - 05:26 PM

I am now intently saving for the rest of the set, but sampling Plum and Strawberry, I find them definitely the most tasty collection of terrific musicians imaginable. I am honored to be included.

I'd also like to give a golden mudcat award to Homeless for the graphics...great cover, wonderful detail, very professional. A great "setting" for all this good music.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 11 Dec 02 - 05:34 PM

Maybe next time (!) there should be a track specially for the mime singers, to represent all the unsung Mudcatters. Of course we might have trouble from the John Cage estate...

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 11 Dec 02 - 06:55 PM

Actually, McGrath there is one of those on the Cds -- but like those it celebrates, I am not revealing its whereabouts!! You'll have to search the whole set to find it!!


A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Seamus Kennedy
Date: 12 Dec 02 - 02:38 AM

Got my set and am relishing every one of them.
Like chocolates, a little at a time, and enjoy.
Great stuff, 'Catters.

Seamus

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 12 Dec 02 - 03:32 AM

Yes, Kevin & Amos, I think a silent contribution from me would be better than out of tempo washboard and out of key kazoo, I don't think it would be fair to expect anyone to try to sing to my accompaniment!
Air singing and air washboard- could catch on!
RtS
(still a-scufflin')

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 12 Dec 02 - 09:32 AM

Roger:

I got the mime track you sent at the start of the project -- it is definitely in there! It's beautiful also -- you have a real flair!

I am leaving it up to individuals to find it, as it was inadvertantly omitted from the playlists (an understandable error, surely). It ios on one of the CDs but I can't remember which one!

So you get your share of the kudos about the CDs, cuz you definitely helped....:>)


A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Lin in Kansas
Date: 13 Dec 02 - 12:04 AM

I have one word for the Mudcat CD set:

WOW!

Beautimous, y'all...

Lin

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 13 Dec 02 - 12:10 AM

Wow, your own self, Lin!! Thanks!!


A and Co.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 13 Dec 02 - 02:33 PM

There ya go guys. Feedback from the well-fed, the gas from gastronomes of Folk, the most tasteful opinions available giving tongue.

So, call that uncle, cash in that burial plot, and sell that old nylon-string Mexican guitar. You KNOW whatcha want for Xmas!! Assert your true heart in the matter!!

Flood Dick!!


A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: kendall
Date: 14 Dec 02 - 05:55 PM

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Nancy King
Date: 14 Dec 02 - 07:52 PM

I've listened to three and a half of the CDs so far, and it's GREAT! There is a whole lot of really neat stuff. Lots of variety -- something for everyone!

Many thanks to Amos and all!

Nancy

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Bobert
Date: 14 Dec 02 - 09:12 PM

Well, I for one would like a rematch. I'm not too sure how poorly recorded "Arthur and Sally" was but by the time it made it to the CD, it was purdy shameful. Anyway, if there are any catters out there in Catburg who would like a cleaner recording and maybe a few other Bobert originals... PM me and I'll get some real Bobert to ya'...

But, now, if ya' wanta half hear my song, then put on some headphones and diddle with yer dials....

Somethin' bad happens when ya' take cassette and try to convert it into pudder...

Bobert

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: khandu
Date: 14 Dec 02 - 09:19 PM

Bobert, it was a conspiracy! Amos didn't like your song and intentionally diddled with the knobs while transferring it. I have known that Amos was a diddler of knobs for a long time, but I didn't really expect him to show it so blatantly! I think it is his feelings of inadequacy for not being from Wes Ginny!

It was a conspiracy but I'm not saying who he was conspiring with!

;o), :-), ;-D,;o), :-), ;-D,;o), :-), ;-D,;o), :-), ;-D,

k

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Tweed
Date: 14 Dec 02 - 09:39 PM

Boberdz,are you saying that you've also mastered the art of the Bad Recording? You ain't startin' yer own site are you? hmmmm..I better get a trademark put together for this goes any further.

Yerz,
Tweed

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: khandu
Date: 14 Dec 02 - 09:46 PM

Duke of Tweedsburg, ya' best move fast! Old Bobert has been mutterin' something about "Bobertsburg" for a coupla months now! Seems he has some kinda mutiny in the works! Heads will roll!

Kingkhandu

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Bobert
Date: 14 Dec 02 - 10:17 PM

Kingkhandu and Tweezer:

Are you gys nutz 'er what? Don't answer that question. Let me rephrase it more politically correct. Hmmmmm? I got it:

ARE YOU GUYS NUTZ?????

Like how am I gonna take over Tweedsburg or even Idiotsburg fir that matter? Hunh? Yeah, didn't think you'd have an answer fir that one! Ha, I say! No, make that a HAHA!

Man, if you all had a clue. Heck, if I had a clue?......

Nevermind...

Bobert

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 15 Dec 02 - 03:09 PM

Bobert:

I thought that song was purely wonderful, but it is true I had some troubles getting it off the cassette ont othe digital side of the trackws, as it were. However, any shortfall in technical results is purely my responsibility. Sorry I let you down man - I actually thought it ended up sounding purdy good, but maybe I had a poor original copy of sompn.

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Bobert
Date: 15 Dec 02 - 05:04 PM

Amos:

Don't cha worry about it none, brother. If you saw the junk that I have that I record on you'd just shake yer head. I do. Might of fact, I bought some nesw junk used off ebay taht I'm trying to figure out now so I have a 50/50 chance to recording better poorly recorded stuff in the future...

Bobert

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 16 Dec 02 - 01:00 PM

IF anyone has access to other folk-centric lists, disk jockeys or other points of light in a folkie vein,m I'd be delighted if you would push the Mudcat Sampler CDs toward them. There's a lot about them that is highly unusual -- the international cast, the volunteerism that produced them, and the quality of the music (except for poor ole Bobert's cut which I still think was a beautiful song) is remarkable.

AND every piece of promotion we do means a better chance at a better server andf possibly even the resurrection of the Mudcat Radio, Max willing and the creek don't rise! :>)

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Genie
Date: 16 Dec 02 - 01:28 PM

Amos, I'm sure KBOO in Portland, OR, would play the CDs if they had 'em. Should I just send them a link to this site/page and see if they'll buy the set, or what? I can't afford to donate the set to them.*


Genie

*If I ever get them. I ordered mine on Nov. 29 or 30th, by phone, and despite "Priority US Mail," they have not arrived yet. *&#!&%*!

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: RolyH
Date: 16 Dec 02 - 03:46 PM

My set arrived this morning.

Many,many thanks to all involved.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 16 Dec 02 - 04:03 PM

RolyH: Enjoy!!

Genie: See PM. ANyone else? We can always direct folks to Tweed's promo page with the playlists and covers.

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Tweed
Date: 16 Dec 02 - 05:19 PM

(announcer's voice, heard offstage...)

Yes, that's RIGHT Amos!! And that URL with all the information you need,once again, is right **HERE**

(wild applause...crowd noise...marching band playing Sousa Melodies parades down the aisle, with Sousa himself in the lead...Cannons are heard blasting in the distance and fireworks erupt from the orchestra pit, "BUY THESE CD'S!! YOU MUST HAVE THEM ALL", is the chant from the chorus. O, the humanity...glorius, glorius..)

Yerz,
Tweed

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 16 Dec 02 - 05:38 PM

Wow!! I been using the wrtong PR man!! :>) Ya wanna job, Mister T? LOL!!

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Tweed
Date: 16 Dec 02 - 06:16 PM

We are All Don Pardo! He is everywhere like water!! ;~)

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Genie
Date: 16 Dec 02 - 06:38 PM

Well, I mentioned this to Amos via PM, and he liked the idea so well I'm posting it here. If anyone wants to email NPR programs like "Thistle & Shamrock" and "American Routes" and steer them toward maybe buying a set for selected air play, please do.

There must be at least a handful of recordings on this CD set that would suit their programming needs and tastes, don't you think?

Anyone have a special in-road to such programs?

Genie

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Alice
Date: 16 Dec 02 - 07:56 PM

As a former DJ and staff member of a non-commercial FM sation, I advise that someone donates a set to them. They don't have extra $ in their budgets to purchase music when recordings are already sent to them free by the companies that release and market music. Taking up a collection to buy a set for Thistle and Shamrock and donating it would work better.

ALice

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 16 Dec 02 - 10:01 PM

As I said to Genie I COULD burn a set from my master files for promo purposes, or maybe we could just talk Dick into sending the a set as a marketing overhead cost, depending on how many he has left...


A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Guy Wolff
Date: 16 Dec 02 - 10:50 PM

I almost drove of the road trying to look at the jewel case and see who was who.. What fun !!! You should all be very proud !!! Great stuff !!! Yay , Guy

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 16 Dec 02 - 10:53 PM

WOW!!! Thanks, Guy!!

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Alice
Date: 17 Dec 02 - 10:56 AM

As I just wrote a press release to my local newspaper for an upcoming performance on New Year's Eve in Great Falls as part of their "First Night" celebration, I am including in the press release a paragraph about the Mudcat CD compilations and information in how to order them. I suggest that this is another way to stimulate interest and orders.

In looking at the CD covers on the order page (great job!) I realize that somehow I didn't get my full name in on the track lists. Bummer. Guess I wasn't watching the right thread!

Alice

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 17 Dec 02 - 10:58 AM

Sorry about the profligate thread generation and the name error, Alice! But I am delighted you are letting your part of the world hear about the CDs!!! Way to go!!!


A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Alice
Date: 17 Dec 02 - 11:15 AM

RE some info helpful in the press release, Amos I was trying to figure out which countries in the world are represented by artists in the compilation. I have so far, Canada, US, Wales, England... what's missing?

Alice

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 17 Dec 02 - 11:24 AM

Artist from New Zealand and Australia, and one from Germany I think, and I believe at least one from Ireland, and Texas. Oh, sorry, it's a state now? :>) Lesseee -- I am reconstructing from the top of my head here, but that's all I can think of. We woulda had one from Iceland but the timing couldn't be made to work! ANyone I missed?


Regards,

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: skarpi
Date: 17 Dec 02 - 03:27 PM

Amos are you gonna make cd number six? Please let know in time
so I can send to you the song.
I have tried to several changes on the song , beet and so on
but I think I like as I wrote it, just me and my guitar may be some extra voices.
All the best Skarpi Iceland.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Guy Wolff
Date: 17 Dec 02 - 04:44 PM

If you get the idea of doing more .. I would love to contribute as well. I cant beleave I missed this whole thing .. All those colors on thread names..Im a little slow and destracted as well I'm afraid . My daughter Elizabeth loves the cover by the way ! Erica my wife is realy into them as well and she is not very interested in folk music on the whole.. It is the combination of community that hit her I think.. I think this will touch alot of people outside the mudcat !!! Yay, All the best Guy,.,.,.,.,<><><><><><><><><><><><>

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Willa
Date: 17 Dec 02 - 05:00 PM

My son was wondering whether there would be another chance to contribute; didn't get around to sending you a tape. Then when I was listening to my copies again I realised that he is on *all* the CDs, as he's part of Harvey's backing chorus on 'The Song.'

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 17 Dec 02 - 05:06 PM

Guy, Willa, and Skarpi:

If I do a CD # 6 it won't be right away, and I am not fully decided yet. There is no lack of material, but I am swamped by concerns in the 3D world at the moment and cannot spare the time just now. IF it does come about I will certainly make sure everyone knows and that all those who meant to but didn't get around to sending in cuts get a chance to do so.

Guy, many thanks for the positive feedback!! Much appreciated, and I agree that the real power in these CDs is the sense of community and genuineness in the music that comes through.

Very best regards,

A.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Celtic Soul
Date: 17 Dec 02 - 10:01 PM

Just promise me, Amos...that there will be one set left come March. I have to be broke 'til then, what with X-mas, a wedding, and your usual day to day expenses not taking a holiday in the interim.

And I *do* want a whole set...it sounds like there's nothing anyone would want to miss out on.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 17 Dec 02 - 10:45 PM

Aww CS, I'll burn you a one-off set if there aren't any left!! You poor, poor chile...sniff...I feels so BAD fer ya, Olive!!

You gotta unnerstan that Dick is the man when it comes to supplying them -- I'm just the PR department! :>)

AS

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 18 Dec 02 - 04:20 AM

Now that Matt R is back on the 'Cat, I hope he contributes to the next CD.
I'll stick to silence (always pleases my public!)
RtS

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 18 Dec 02 - 08:37 AM

Roger:

Don't be so modest. Your mime track is the one that pulls the best reviews on ____ (the contest hasn't finished yet to find Roger's track -- winner gets a free set.)


A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: GUEST
Date: 19 Dec 02 - 11:24 AM

Maybe you could do a Christmas cd for next year. You can call it Muddy Christmas

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 19 Dec 02 - 11:52 AM

Yeah! All the tracks could be by Anonymous Guests, all the words borrowed, and they could all have the same tune! :>)

THanks for the grin, GUEST 1124.

a

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Áine
Date: 19 Dec 02 - 05:04 PM

Whew! I've finally finished listening to all five CDs, and I can only echo the reactions of all you other 'Catters -- 'Wow!' '. . . like chocolate,' 'professional', 'good stuff,' 'blown away.' I am hard-pressed to come up with something original to say for my own 'review'; so, I'll just settle for the truth:

I really didn't expect to have such an evocative and personal reaction to all this music. As I listen to each selection, I am taken aback by the amount of individual artistry reflected in the music. Artistry that exceeds the limitations of instrumental or vocal skill, performing experience, technical expertise, or ego.

This collection of music is rightly named 'sampler', because it is just a sample of what real people can accomplish when they do something for the right reason(s). Call it artistry, love, personality or whatever; the Mucat CDs have 'it'.

I can't think of the last time that listening to music gave me such pure and unadulterated pleasure.

Congratulations to ALL INVOLVED with this project, and a big thank you to Max and the Mudcatters Behind The Curtain, who made (and keep on making) this a reality!

With love and respect, Áine

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 19 Dec 02 - 05:55 PM

Wow!! That's the most accurate review yet!! :>) Thanks, TGG!


A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 19 Dec 02 - 07:56 PM

The times are ripe to moan and fret

Consider Bush, our nation's debt,

And threats of strife more troubling yet!

Where is relief?

...
..
...
..

....A CD SET!!!

Mudcat Sampler CDs will raise your spirits and give you the courage to go out and do what needs to be done....

Regards,
A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Genie
Date: 20 Dec 02 - 04:44 AM

Amos, if/when there's a Mudcat CD Fuchsia (or Avocado or whatever), I definitely think Iceland should be represented, don't you?

Genie

Looking forward to hearing my set next week. There was a SNAFU, and my original order didn't get processed. Hence the 3 week delay in receiving them, but, from what I've already heard of the CDs (Amos's preview in November) and from the reviews above, all I can say is "better late than later!!"

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 20 Dec 02 - 12:29 PM

Absolutely. Fuchsia? Avocado? I dunno, lass. Maybe we should consult with the color-and-aroma-therapy specialists for candidates. Sandalwood? WHite Shoulders? Cucumber Margarita? The mind boggles at possibilities. In any case, there's no immediate plan for #6. Just getting #s 1-5 to fly to extaordinary heights is my main concern for the project at present. Sorry about the order delay -- but you know what they say about the urge for instant gratification!! :>) (as though eight months wasn't long enough to wait!). They'll be worth the wait, I wot.


A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Giac
Date: 20 Dec 02 - 07:35 PM

Just got my copy of Plum. All I can say is, "Damn!"

This is such fine stuff. Haven't heard it all yet, but this is wonderful.

Amos, the liner notes are perfect. Michaelr, Homeless, Spartacus, Dick, you guys are great.

I am deeply humbled to be allowed to run with the big dogs instead of cowering under the porch. This was such fun! Guess I'll have to take my copy on a local tour and say, "Listen to this! These are my friends. Aren't they cool to let me play, too? Now, buy as set!"

Can't wait to hear the rest of them.

Mary

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Genie
Date: 20 Dec 02 - 08:39 PM

Well, Amos, most babies make ya wait for NINE months, so why should your baby be any different. The li'l bundle of joy arrived here in San Diego today, so now I get to hear all five of them. HOORAY!

Genie

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: kendall
Date: 21 Dec 02 - 01:46 PM

I just finished hearing all 5, and, all I can say is, not too damn shabby! This is not like usual, you buy a cd for one good song, well, there is all kinds of good stuff on each of them. A treasure trove if I ever saw one.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 21 Dec 02 - 09:33 PM

Thankee kindly, Capting. Not too bad for an ole curmudgeon! At least you now have sounds ande voices to tack on to those dozens of names you've been speaking to all these years!


A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Genie
Date: 22 Dec 02 - 07:38 PM

I just got mine Friday and I have heard Strawberry (of course, since I ordered some for presents for family) and Plum. Both have many great moments on them,* but I think the Plum is especially wonderful on the whole.
Among my favorite moments are John P. and Telynor's "Hangman" on Strawberry, "Rag, Eh?" by Rick F., "Gently Down The Stream Of Time" by Kendall and "The Girl With The Shimmy In Her Pants" by Reggie M. on Plum.
Gotta go listen to the other three.

Genie

*Sadly, my cut on Strawberry is not among them. Somehow in going from the original studio-recorded reel-to-reel tape to a "master casette" (which was stolen) to a tape copied from that to Amos's CD burner to the Mudcat CD, the song ended up sounding like mush. It doesn't sound unpleasant, but you can't understand the words, and it sounds like I'm singing under a pillow. But, hey, it's only one song out of 23, so the CD is still worth the price.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 22 Dec 02 - 08:36 PM

(Well I didn't think it sounded like mush! See earlier notes to MM -- seems the ONE song everyone is dissatisfied with is the one they sing, but they all love everyone else's!! Go figger! :>))

Love,

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Genie
Date: 23 Dec 02 - 01:37 AM

You may have something there, Amos. I thought Leo's song sounded great!

As I said, I don't think my song sounded bad. I just thought there was some sound distortion resulting from tape to tape to tape to tape to CD.

A similar thing happened on a couple of other folks' cuts on some CDs. I.e., some cuts are loud and crystal clear and others are more muted sounding. I think that's because some cuts are from professionally done commercial CDs and others are more 'homemade.'

It still makes for a wonderful selection of songs, pickin' ( and fiddlin'), and singin'.

Thanks again for doing such a great job on them, Amos.

Genie

BTW, folks, if you want to hear some danged good songwriting, pay attention to several gems penned by Amos (alone or in collaboration). They aren't all sung by him, but check out the back cover for songs written by "Jessup." You got it goin' on, bro'.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 23 Dec 02 - 09:58 AM

Awww.....

Thanks!

You're right, Genie -- the quaity varies -- some of the songs were polished in a studio, some were taped on a back porch. I believe Tweed's mike sits in a cigar box. I mentioned this several times in the (over twenty!) CD threads.   The main thing I went for in all the songs was a certain quality of heart, and I think that comes through on all of them!

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Genie
Date: 24 Dec 02 - 12:06 AM

Yup!

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 24 Dec 02 - 11:32 AM

Aside from rallying together all the really fine music so many sent in for the Mudcat CD Series, the project also had the purpose of raising some funds for the Mudcat. Dick allows he'll be presenting an accounting soon, I expect by year's end. But he has said ". It's clear, though, that this is the most effective fun-raiser Mudcat has ever seen. .

So maybe we will see that fat-ass unflappable Mudcat server and some Mudcat Radio!! (Or at least a bassinet and some pacifiers!) And it isn't over by any means!! There are new heights ahead. But we did what we originally set out to do.

Well done, and thanks, to all concerned. We succeeded.

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: kendall
Date: 24 Dec 02 - 12:05 PM

Thank you so much for your kind words Genie. Your song, Harmony, was not a clear recording, but, the talent still came through.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Tweed
Date: 24 Dec 02 - 04:30 PM

Yes, that's correct Amos, my Elvis mic sits in a cigar box (Dutch Masters, accept no substitutes) ;~)

By the way, I see that there are a few sets left in Mr. Greenhouse's warehouse and thought perhaps some people were confused about where and how to order these gems of many colors and flavors.
Here's that link again...

order soon but save a Plum for me!

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Tweed
Date: 24 Dec 02 - 04:34 PM

.....er...ahhemm..the link....again...

Mudcat Ordering Info Here

yerz,
Tweed

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 24 Dec 02 - 05:37 PM

You go, Boss Man!! Whatever that rig of yours is, you got a good thing going, as the actress said to the bishop.


A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Genie
Date: 25 Dec 02 - 04:44 AM

And thanks for your kind words, Kendall.

Amos:
It's clear, though, that this is the most effective fun-raiser
Mudcat has ever seen.

HUZZAH!!!

I've listened to two more tonight: the rose and the orchid one, and there are some fantastibus moments on them!

Jed M, that song of yours "Soul of A Wanderer" is something really special. (An' ya doesn't sing 'n' pick too bad, neither.)

BTW, if I pick out a few songs to heap special praise on, please don't take it as disparaging the others. I've enjoyed the whole CDs immensely, every one of them.

Genie .

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 25 Dec 02 - 10:29 AM

MERRY Christsmas to Mudcatters all!!

I hope a lot of you finallyh got to open your CDs and enjoy them!! I love the notion of these songs playing all around the planet this morning!!

Blessings on all your houses!


A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Giac
Date: 25 Dec 02 - 10:36 AM

Merry Christmas to you, Amos, and to everybody else, too. I'm dog-sitting for my friends, so their two dogs and my two and I are listening to Plum (for the umpteenth time) and watching it snow.

Snow! Although it's coming down really hard right now, with huge flakes, probably won't last long and we'll only get a dusting, but it's neat to see on Christmas morning.

Mary,
(and my babies Misty and Emily, and the sitees, Nicholas Fractal and Tennga Louise)

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Uncle_DaveO
Date: 25 Dec 02 - 10:39 AM

Like many another here, I was able to open my Mudcat CD set present last night, and my Beautiful Wife allowed me to play ONE CD. It was the Orchid, because she wanted to hear how I sounded on it.

I was blown away by song after song!

Singing is sometimes almost a mystical experience to me, and singing for others enhances it geometrically. To find my singing (even though in a somewhat muffled recording) on a CD in the midst of such wonderful performances by such great musicians was an inexpressable delight and honor.

Dave Oesterreich

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 25 Dec 02 - 11:08 AM

I've got to open them, but not to play them yet, because everybody else has crashed out for an afternoon nap, after the Christmas Blowout.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: MAG
Date: 25 Dec 02 - 02:22 PM

My set arrived in the nick of time yesterday and I listened to two last night; can't wait to hear the rest today as I open my prezzies and chow down on turkey.

(Some kind of conundrum there, as the CDs are my present to myself, and I open them as I open ...)

Dy-no-mite work, everybody. The number of volunteer hours is almost as staggering as the music.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Barbara Shaw
Date: 25 Dec 02 - 03:22 PM

I've only had the chance to listen to the whole set once, but ones that I remember as standing out (not to slight any of the others, which were all fine and great fun to hear): Khandu's Cool Cup of Water (Violet), Kytrad's Deep Shady Grove (Orchid), Rick Fielding's Sing With the Angels (Orchid), Kendall's Gently Down the Stream of Time (Plum), the Patons' When You and I Were Young (Rose) and Margaret V's beautiful singing on Down By the Sally Gardens (Rose).

That was just the first time through. Many good songs, good singers, nice stuff.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Sorcha
Date: 26 Dec 02 - 12:04 PM

I loaned mine to my friend Judith; she called last night and said,"Sorcha, you are flying in some high company there!" She was so impressed she may order a set when she has money.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Genie
Date: 26 Dec 02 - 01:39 PM

Dave O, I just now got finished listening to your cut on the Orchid CD,* and I loved it.

Now I 've heard all 5 CDs, and all I can say is that I keep having new "favorites!"

Genie

* I lied before. It was the Rose and Violet ones I heard a couple of nights ago. I opened Orchid last night and fell asleep listening to it (about midnight), so I'm replaying it this morning.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Uncle_DaveO
Date: 26 Dec 02 - 02:10 PM

Thankee kindly, Genie!

Dave Oesterreich

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: UB Ed
Date: 26 Dec 02 - 02:23 PM

So far I've only made it through three, but have really enjoyed it.

A big thanks to all for making this happen.

Ed

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Art Thieme
Date: 26 Dec 02 - 02:54 PM

It's the day after x-mas and I've listened to 'em all twice. You all are a wonderfully talented group. Amos, I did feel that the cassette I sent you had better sound quality than the end result you achieved. But no matter, it was an honor to be a part of this great example of cyber community and what the www can be.

Thanks so very much for all of your efforts.

Art Thieme

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: mg
Date: 26 Dec 02 - 03:34 PM

ok I can only get one..help me decide.

mg

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Uncle_DaveO
Date: 26 Dec 02 - 05:59 PM

You gotta ask someone who's on several of the disks. Someone like me, only on one of them, is BOUND to be partial. So get Orchid.

Dave Oesterreich

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: GUEST,sing.out/Penny
Date: 26 Dec 02 - 06:06 PM

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: MMario
Date: 26 Dec 02 - 08:41 PM

Now - If Dave is on Orchid, it's gotta be pretty good; but PLUM is dandy too!

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: JedMarum
Date: 26 Dec 02 - 09:23 PM

Thanks Genie - I wrote that song for my wife's birthday. It's our story; we got married when we were kids ... 32 years ago.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: JedMarum
Date: 26 Dec 02 - 09:31 PM

... I guess I'm not a kid anymore!

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Celtic Soul
Date: 26 Dec 02 - 09:44 PM

Holy Smokes!!!

They're breath taking. All sorts of music. All sorts of styles. All sorts of voices. All sorts of instruments. All sorts of moods. And every one a gem. This has been the season for gifts of music in my house, and I could not be a happier folkie. In addition to these CD's I was also given a stack of Ren-Faire folk music. Before you cast a quizzical eye, the stuff is really good. After all, Owain Phyfe and the New World Renaissance Band are "Faire Musicians". It's amazing who you get to rub elbows with through this gig. What a priviledge.

And Mmario??? You are one sweet guy, honey.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 26 Dec 02 - 10:26 PM

Ya got that right, CS!!!


A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: khandu
Date: 26 Dec 02 - 10:42 PM

That is twice that you have mentioned "Cool Cup of Water", Barbara. I am quite pleased that you enjoy it. The song has deep personal meaning to me, and your liking it enough to mentioning is very affirming! Thank you.

Ken

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Genie
Date: 27 Dec 02 - 01:52 AM

Mary, like Dave O, I'm biased, since I'm only on one CD (Strawberry). But in all seriousness, I think you could pick any one of them at random and be delighted with it. (Plum, Strawberry, and Orchid have 23 songs apiece. Rose, I think, has 19, and Violet 21.)

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: GUEST,jaze
Date: 27 Dec 02 - 02:42 AM

I only have Rose-but love every moment of it.Every time I listen I have a new favorite. Right now it's Margaret V's haunting Down By The Salley Garden. I never heard that song before and am transfixed. Thank you, Margaret!And to think there's 4 more I haven't heard. Thanks again to all of you for sharing your incredible talent. James

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 27 Dec 02 - 10:53 AM

Well, I am just tickled pink that these CDs are bringing pleasure and delight, And if you felt disappointed with the way your track came out I apologize and claim technical hurdles. I woulda shopped the job to a pro but I am strapp3ed with college bills just now, so I wrassled 'em over as best I could witht he gear I had, and I wish it coulda been even better!

If you know any DJs who want to cover them in the field let me know.

I think they're cool enough to get on the cover of the Rolling Stone!

:>)


A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Genie
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 01:07 AM

Amos, like Art, I think the tape I submitted sounded cleaner than the CD does.

BUT I really have NO COMPLAINT in that regard.

First of all, how often can I get a song of mine included in a widely distributed CD for the price of, well, for FREE?

Second, I didn't get my tape to you until pretty much the last minute.

Third, I know how this project snowballed and how incredibly much work was involved. I'm impressed that you did so much so well and in such a short time. The CDs, even with a bit of distortion on a small handful of songs, are worth more than their cost. And Mudcat gets publicity and support, to boot.

:-D

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Tweed
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 08:22 AM

Well I've heard reports that my own vocals sound gravelly and rough Amos. Obviously there is something horribly wrong with yore tranferral device as I possess a fine tenor capable of shattering crystal chandeliers at 100 yards. It's very distressin' news ....;~)
BTW that ordering info for the Mudcat Blue Plate Specials can be found here...

*THE MUDCAT CD's AD, GET 'EM WHILE THEY LAST*

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Margaret V
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 09:16 AM

You're most welcome, jaze, and thank YOU! And thanks also to Barbara for the kind words. There's so much wonderful stuff on these discs and it's great fun to think about a bunch of people across the world being "haunted," to borrow jaze's term, by one or another of the songs as they go about their daily business. Margaret

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: MAG
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 09:42 AM

Odd you should mention Rolling Stone, Amos -- I see from my newsletter that the grand old OTSFM in Chicago is doing a tribute to the Rolling StoneS by the staff -- personally, I'm appalled. I'll make the trip back just to picket Under My Thumb.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: GUEST,sing.out/Penny
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 12:42 PM

Oops--having trouble posting.

I managed to listen to the whole set on Christmas, in spite of company, cooking, etc. I love them all, too. No one has mentioned "Letter From Lilac Acres," one of my favorites.

Are these CDs going to be available throughout the year, and especially next Christmas?!

Penny

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 12:56 PM

Penny,

As far as I know Dick plans to keep them in inventory -- and who knows, there may be more Mudcat CDs by then!! I have no plans further out than next week. Well, a few but not about CDs!

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: GUEST,Vintage Martin
Date: 29 Dec 02 - 11:08 AM

They make good New Year's presents, too. And birthday presents. And mother's day/father's day presents.

And don't forget to do your Groundhog Day shopping early, too!

;-)

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 29 Dec 02 - 12:02 PM

Hobbits are said to give presents on their birthdays, rather than receive them. Maybe in the light of the current interest in such things, this practice might catch on. In which case these would be just the thing.

I'm still listening to the CDs, but rationing myself rather than binging, to stretch out the novelty. Then I can get round to listening to them again - but there's a special delight in hearing something for the first time, and I want to make the most of that. And there are so many surprises on the records. Stuff you wouldn't expect - such as Callie's "Tant Que Vivrai" on Plum.

One thing though - I wish that it were possible in all cases to flick through to the Mudcat photos section, and see what the contributors to the CDs look like. Maybe a few more of the ones who haven't put up a photo could consider making that possible in their case - it adds an extra dimension to it all.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 29 Dec 02 - 12:50 PM

I would have loved to make a multimedia production with photos and Quicktime movies as well as the music itself, Kevin. If someone wanted to start a campaign to get "performance shots" of all these wonderful singers and put them on a separate page of the Mudcat Photos site, they could be linked to a play list of each CD fairly easily. I wish I had time to pursue this enhancement, but time is a bit prohibitive for me at present.

Be a great project for someone, though!! They could be tied in with a cleaned up set of the notes, credits and lyrics from the various threads by disk.

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Cappuccino
Date: 29 Dec 02 - 01:45 PM

I'm feeling in a bizarre left-out position - the company I work for, known for passing dud cheques (or, in American, 'checks') to its staff, has failed to pay us at all for December. So I haven't even bought a single CD yet - not even the one I'm on!!!

Amos, I promise to buy as soon as possible...

Happy New Year, all.
-Ian B

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 29 Dec 02 - 01:46 PM

Hang tough, Ian!!

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 29 Dec 02 - 01:55 PM

That'd be fun, but it wasn't what I was suggesting - we've got the "Members Photos & Info" facility under Quick Links, and I was suggesting that more of us use that, especially, in this instance, the CD participants.

When you think of it, the Mudcat itself is potentially that multi-media production to which Amos referred longingy. We've just got to learn how use it that way.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Genie
Date: 30 Dec 02 - 04:17 PM

Your song's great on the CD, Ian. I hope you get paid soon so you can hear it.


Folks, Amos just explained something to me that I'd forgotten I sort of knew. I was wondering why some cuts on the CDs aren't as sharp and clear as the tapes they were made from. (I had this silly notion that converting to CD automatically preserved, and could even improve, the sound quality of the original.)

The problem, of course (duh!) is the TAPE NOISE. It's very difficult to get rid of it in transfer without also losing some of the desired "highs."

I always knew the fuzziness on my song on the CD wasn't Amos's fault, because he worked tirelessly on those CDs (even burned a couple of CDs for me from two of my tapes), and he knows a thing or two about computers (even has a sort of mini studio set up in his study). I was just puzzled (and, yes, disappointed) about the CD not sounding as good as the tape.

Now I know why Amos had no butt when I saw him in November -- he really must've worked the danged thing off trying to get rid of hiss and snap in many Mudcatters' tapes (even tapes that sound pretty good) without losing fidelity in the music.

Now I'm REALLY impressed with what you accomplished, bro!

Genie

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 30 Dec 02 - 06:27 PM

Right...uh...thanks, I guess. Sorry you were so disappointed at the outcome!

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Tweed
Date: 30 Dec 02 - 06:45 PM

Genie, it's a fine artform to recreate that 78 rpm sound. I've devoted a couple years towards that end myself. I've employed creaking ceiling fans, tv newscasts, a window unit air conditioner on high, and my dog in the quest for perfectly awful sound reproduction. Good on you Amos. Lomax is smiling down from wherever he may now reside;~)

Yerz,
Tweed
The Badly Recorded Blues

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: khandu
Date: 30 Dec 02 - 07:07 PM

The only thing Tweed has not used yet is a whipped cat, but I am expecting that at any time!! I am certain that Lomax is smiling when he listens to Tweed's Badly Recorded Blues, hell, I'll bet that he's even tittering,... chuckling,... chortling,...guffawing....ROTFLHAO!!!

khanny

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Genie
Date: 30 Dec 02 - 09:07 PM

Just listening to DWDitty on "Violet," and, man, you've got one of those wonderfully "dirty" voices (like Louis Armstrong, Jimmy Durante, Leadbelly, etc.). That "Shadows Of The Night Time" is great!

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Dharmabum
Date: 30 Dec 02 - 09:32 PM

I'm with you Tweed!
If you listen close enough to my recording(Please,not too close)you can hear a beer bottle being knocked over.
It seems to provide just the appropriate ambience.
Not to mention the most fitting accompaniment to my singing!

Can't wait till I can afford the rest of the set.

DB.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Genie
Date: 30 Dec 02 - 09:51 PM

Amos, I'm really disappointed only because my words are hard to understand on the CD.

It also depends on the sound system I play it on. My initial "whining" post was after listening to the CD on a portable CD-radio-tape deck. The sound on the songs was coming out loud and clear and then mine came on at what seemed like half-volume and hardly intelligible. But I've played it on other systems and most of the problem seems to disappear.

The tape DOES have more hiss (like the old 78s), and more treble in general, which makes the words clearer.

If you want BAD RECORDINGS, though, I've got a slew of them -- like the ones done with my $100 Radio Shack Karaoke machine. The tape changes speed during recording, which makes for lots of fun when you try to play guitar-on-guitar as you play back the tape!! Others have cats knocking things over and phones ringing and cars going by in the background. My "low signal" tape was at least 3rd generation from the reel-to-reel master done in the "garage studio" of a professional musician.

As I've said before, I think the CDs are wonderful!

Genie

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 30 Dec 02 - 09:54 PM

Righto, Genie, glad you like 'em.


A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: bbc
Date: 31 Dec 02 - 08:34 AM

I gave myself the whole set for Christmas & I'm very pleased that I did! It is a real pleasure to hear such of range of interesting folks perform. My appreciation runs the gamut from ones who I didn't know were male/female till I heard their voices to people I've gotten to know online but never met in person or heard sing to those who I *have* met & heard but who don't have commercial recordings to those who perform professionally & I own their music already. I really feel privileged to have the whole mix. Nice work on setting up the cd's, Amos; thank you! And thank you to Dick for supplying them. Thank you to each one who took the time & trouble to contribute music. Now, I regret that I didn't. Not that I think my music is so great, but that some of you might enjoy knowing more of who bbc is.

best to all,

bbc

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Big Mick
Date: 31 Dec 02 - 09:40 AM

Got my set yesterday and took a quick spin through them. What a talented bunch of neighbors we have here!! I absolutely love these CD's and will be busy harvesting songs to sing, and listening to the techniques of many of you. And what a sense of arrangement I have heard on many of these takes. I now want to slow down and go through them in a much more leisurely pace.

I have a feeling that this collection will take on much more significance over the years. I would suggest that you all get the full set.

Great job, Amos.

Mick

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 31 Dec 02 - 10:04 AM

Thanks, Mick, and bbc...that means a lot!


A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: InOBU
Date: 31 Dec 02 - 02:51 PM

NEXT STOP, MUDCAT DVDS?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Art Thieme
Date: 31 Dec 02 - 02:57 PM

bbc,

We know all about who you are ! And you are even better than NPR-APR and a ton better than the crap on AM-FM.

Love,

Art

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 31 Dec 02 - 03:08 PM

"A full set" - that normally means dentures in my part of the world. That could be the next project maybe. All the better to Mudbite you...

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 31 Dec 02 - 04:24 PM

With nano-engineering advancing as it is in a few years you'll be able to get a full set of dentures preloaded with all the Mudcat Classics plus the encyclopedia Britannica and have them play in your ear by bone-transduction. Then you'll really have a full set...in the sense of McGrath's meaning, of course. Exiles from the once-glorious Temple of the Golden Curve might have another interpretation...

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 05 Jan 03 - 11:12 AM

Historical Notes

It has been a long and winding trail, folks, and we got there. I think it is appropriate to mention the beginnings.

Max and Bert had been calling for CDs by Mudcatters for some time as early as 1999, with a variety of submissions being sent in.

But the first Mudcat Sampler Vision was, I think, really the fevered creation of our own Lonesome EJ -- who else? -- who started a thread in February of 1999 suggesting:

Suppose someone(Max?)put together a sampler of music by talented folks who visit this website, and offered it for sale on the site? Would anyone, other than me,be interested?

to which Spaw replied 48 minutes later:

You know, you really have a point. Dan, Art, Rick, Frank, Sandy and others...but I'll tell you what I'd really love... ... ...I'd like to hear a song from Alice, a favorite tune from Bill D., and Big Mick, and Roger, and Alison, and gargoyle, and McMusic, and Barbara, and Duane's pianolin, and Barb Shaw's bluegrass, and on and on. Something special from each 'Catter. Bill's posting pics, but a voice and a song...that's the ticket too.

I've absolutely no idea how that could ever be pulled off! ...It would just be fun to have wouldn't it??? From an Irish pub to a Mississippi delta, from a Blue Grass gathering to Brisbane, from Oz to the Appalachians...clear around the world. What a kick!!!

Art Thieme chimed in at 1AM on February 4th with:with:

I sure would be interested. I wanna know what everybody sounds like too.

Max started putting out calls for candidates on the 5th of February 1999 and various reminders and "whatever happened to...." appeared. Max resurrcted the quest in March of 2000. In March of 2002, McGrath, Jerry Rasmussen and Bobert resurrected the concept. I started promoting for candidates on 24 March 2002. The master disks were shipped to Dick Greenhaus on the fifth of November 2002. The artwork (Homeless and MichaelR) was completed on November 16th. The CDs were in the hands of Mudcatters by the first week of December 2002, almost four years after the original vision had been lofted (but only 8 months or so after the kickoff call in March).

So, Leej, buddy, and Spaw and Art, your Vision has been Materialized, Realized and Delivered. How about them apples?

I hope you are enjoying them a LOT!

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Cappuccino
Date: 05 Jan 03 - 12:02 PM

Hmm. I remember being a resurrector too...

But I like Big Mick's idea of this 'taking on more significance over the years'. We have our own time capsule!!!

-Ian B

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Alice
Date: 05 Jan 03 - 02:40 PM

Yes, I remember seeds of the CD before '99, too, when Max asked us to send music and he aired it on the Mudcat Radio. Also there were very early calls from Max to send content to the Mudcat, including members' recordings. His requests for music by "unknown" folkies goes back basically to the beginning of the Mudcat Cafe. Here is one thread from Jan/Feb '97.
http://www.mudcat.org/thread.cfm?threadid=631

Alice

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: bbc
Date: 05 Jan 03 - 09:29 PM

Ah, shucks, Art! Although I did say "who" bbc is, not "what" BBC is.
:)

love you, too,

bbc

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 05 Jan 03 - 10:29 PM

Well, as far as calls for Mudcatters who had CD, I stand corrected; but the creation of the Sampler, based on the dialogue cited above, started with LEJ. Ian, sorry, no slight intended!!

I just spent half an hour with Ron Olesko of WFDU in New Jersey who for many years has run the TRADITIONS folk radio show. He's going to do a one-hour presentation of the CDs on his show on January 19th. He sounds very enthused and positive about the whole thing and is promoting the 'Cat. This may roll on out somewhere good, guys! :>)

You can listen to TRADITIONS every Sunday afternoon from 3 to 6pm on 89.1 in the NYC area, or listen via the internet at http://www.wfdu.fm .

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Alice
Date: 06 Jan 03 - 12:34 AM

Thanks to you, Amos, for actually putting it all together. It really is amazing how far this community has come from the beginnings of the Mudcat to have our own multi-CD compilation.

Alice

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Cappuccino
Date: 06 Jan 03 - 04:53 AM

Only joking, Amos. But I do seriously think that is a good point by Mick about the significance of this set.

It is, I think, an important landmark.

I've found the same at home - you know I record and duplicate CDs at home, for our charity? At last, what we have done here has begun to inspire other people to think that they, too, can go on record, and are asking us how to do it, etc.   Same with the Mudcat set, I think. Apart from standing as a wonderful record of what is, it should inspire others to what might be...

Oh dear, does that sound posey? You know what I mean!!!

-Ian B

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: dick greenhaus
Date: 06 Jan 03 - 11:12 AM

STATUS REPORT

We've sold over 70 sets of the 80 we had produced, plus some singles. I'm going to reorder--I'd like to keep these CDs available to anyone who wants to buy them.

If you're planning on buying any within the next 6 months or so, please let me know. I need some guidance in how many to order. Clearly, the per-CD cost is lower if I order a larger quantity, but this saving disappears rapidly if the extras aren't sold.

Keep it up! They make elegant presents for Easter, or St. Swithin's Day or Oktoberfests.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 06 Jan 03 - 11:48 AM

YAYYYYY!!!! Hear, hear!! Listen to the man!! He is practically BEGGING to be flooded!!

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Genie
Date: 06 Jan 03 - 05:15 PM

Is there any way we could make the CDs available, for a slightly inflated price, at NW Folklife Festival in Seattle, Rainy Camp, Sunny Camp, Singtime Frolics, etc.? The price inflation at, say, Folklife, would be necessary for the store that runs the tape-CD concession to have their cut. But if any Mudcatters are performing at Folklife, it would be legitimate to offer the CDs there.

Of course, if we bought them as sets for $12 each and sold them for $15 each, the store (or Rainy Camp, etc.) could take the other $3 as their cut. But I'd be hesitant to buy a bunch of sets to try to sell at, say, Rainy Camp (early Feb.) without being sure I could sell them.


Any thoughts about this sort of thing?

Genie

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 06 Jan 03 - 07:06 PM

WHy not have Dick dropship them? If samples were available, your gang could charge a couple of bucks extra. Or maybe Dick would offer them a volume price?


A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: dick greenhaus
Date: 06 Jan 03 - 10:40 PM

WE could most likely work something out, but I tremble to think of tripping over small mountains of returned CDs for months (even years) to come.

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 06 Jan 03 - 11:25 PM

Mine was waiting in the mail this evening at home! Thanks, Dick! I look forward to many hours of happy listening!

Stilly River Sage

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: jeffp
Date: 07 Jan 03 - 08:37 AM

Mine arrived yesterday as well. I've only listened to one of them yet, but it was great.

jeffp

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Big Mick
Date: 07 Jan 03 - 08:43 PM

I am now in the process of taking a lot of time and really giving these gems a good listen to. It is a humbling experience. The talent on these CD's, hence the talent in these precincts, is staggering. From the glitziest, totally arranged, cuts to the kitchen takes, this collection is a time capsule of great importance. When one listens to this collection, and places it in the context of the coming together of a diverse worldwide community in the right place and the right time, then factors in the range of personalities from noted to unknown, the diversity of styles presented, and the coming of age of the internet...........I repeat, it is staggering. Amos, you may be very proud of what you have assembled.

To all contributors, my congratulations and my greatest respect. I am learning daily from your contributions, you have taken me down the road a fair piece. I am proud to be in your company.

Mick

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 07 Jan 03 - 08:47 PM

Mick:

I am proud to be in yours, mate, but all I did was hoot and holler to get the submissions in and then sorta shuffle and deal.

The real power in those CDs comes voice by voice from those who did the real work of singing the songs. You bein' one of em!

A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Ebbie
Date: 07 Jan 03 - 09:50 PM

Dick, I'll be ordering another set soon. Great for a gift, plus I'm going to see if our local public radio station needs a set.

I'm just so impressed by *ALL* of the CDs- I'm learning more and more of the songs and am transcribing as I go. I've already taught three of the songs to a music group, giving full credit, and will get lots more going as I learn them. It's such fun, and there is such good stuff in them. I couldn't even pick out an actual favorite anymore.

Ah, heck. I'm going to pm Dick right now...

Eb

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Genie
Date: 08 Jan 03 - 09:51 PM

I just had a thought. (Hope it doesn't feel lonely in my head and leave!)

If my local NPR affiliate won't buy a set of the CDs, and I donate one, I can take the cost as a charitable donation on my income tax, can't I?

(Any catters out there who will admit to being tax accountants or lawyers?)

Genie

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: katlaughing
Date: 20 Feb 07 - 06:39 PM

I've had all of the Mudcat CDs on my player the past couple of days and have been reminded, once again, of what a remarkable feat it was and the astounding talent we have around here. To me, those CDs are the best of what Mudcat was and can be, again. Stunning and endearing all over, again. Thanks to all who partook and to Amos for pulling it all together.

kat

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: Amos
Date: 20 Feb 07 - 06:41 PM

THere you have it, guys and gals. You want the True Spirit of the Mudcat? Call Dick Greenhaus and get you a set of these CDs in time for Spring when they will uplift, resuscitate, enliven, energize, awaken and revive you from the long gray winter's doldrums!! Don't delay!!


A

Subject: RE: Review: This Mudcat CD set
From: katlaughing
Date: 16 Aug 07 - 01:08 PM

I just bought a CD changer which holds 400 discs, so I can now have music all day and night, if I want, and never hear the same thing twice, even though I don't have quite that many, yet.

Anyway, the Mudcat CDs set is on there and once again I was struck with the quality and beauty of the talent on this site. This time, the one which really got me was Khandu singing Cool Cup of Water on the Violet CD, cut 18. What a voice!!

Thanks, again, to all who participated in this and to Amos for all of the fine work.

kat