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13 May 09 - 02:21 PM (#2631017) Subject: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: Joe Offer Sometime Mudcatter Riggy Rackin has a new CD out called Somewhere in Between, and it's a good one. You can learn more about Riggy and his music at http://www.riggy.com It's always a pleasure to hear Riggy sing. When he pulls out his concertina, the room gets quiet, and people perk up and pay attention. If it's Riggy singing, they know it's going to be an interesting song, and that its presentation is going to be authentic. Riggy looks authentic. He looks like one of those guys who sits in the back of the general store or the forecastle of a ship and spits tobacco juice on the floor, but people put up with him because he can sing. And sing he does. He makes a little masterpiece out of every song, milking out every nuance. He also gathers together an interesting group of people to accompany him - many of you will recognize some of these names. And there has to be a story behind those hats he wears - I'll find out some day. Here are Riggy's notes. I'll add links to threads discussing some of the songs.
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13 May 09 - 08:18 PM (#2631233) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: sharyn Thanks for posting the notes, Joe. Haven't bought the CD yet, but I will just to get "Chimney Sweep." Sharyn |
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13 May 09 - 09:31 PM (#2631271) Subject: ADD: Moss (Ernie Noyes) From: RiGGy Thank YOU, Joe, for that !! You asked in a pm for me to fill any blanks, so here goes : Downloads are available at: Download Somewhere in Between The only song I see that wasn't linked to lyrics was Ernie's song: MOSS (Ernie Noyes) I have no roots, I grow everywhere I hold the earth and I feed the deer I have no words but what you give me My thoughts and feelings are the same Born of the earth and wind The sunlight and the rain I'm not a plant, nor am I a stone I follow the sun and I'm always at home I'm not the top or the bottom No, I'm somewhere in between Where the stone and waters meet An endless beginning . . . Riggy |
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13 May 09 - 11:40 PM (#2631331) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: katlaughing Wow, I will want it just for MOSS, let alone all of the others; the lyrics are stunning. Thanks, Joe, and Riggy! Congrats! |
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14 May 09 - 02:28 PM (#2631867) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: Barbara Cool beans, Riggy. Is this available in hardcopy too? Blessings, Barbara |
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14 May 09 - 06:10 PM (#2632024) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: RiGGy But of course ! Via PayPal http://www.riggy.com/samples.html or pm me. riggy@riggy.com Riggy |
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17 May 09 - 09:50 PM (#2634356) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: GUEST,Henry Nagle I just got the cd the other day, Riggy. Thanks! It sounds great and the songs are super. Really tasteful! I very glad I got to be a part of it. Henry |
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18 May 09 - 02:48 AM (#2634458) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: GUEST,Chanteyranger This is a wonderful CD! Riggy's heart and soul comes through in every track. Those of us in the Bay Area have known for years that Riggy is a fine singer of traditional and contemporary songs. On this CD, Riggy gets the fine accompaniment and production values that his singing has always deserved - subtle, tasteful, and fitting each track just right. Well done! Chanteyranger |
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18 May 09 - 11:22 AM (#2634755) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: GUEST,Chris Carney Riggy's done it again. A beautiful album that sounds like he got a bunch of friends together to help him record this wonderful compilation of songs (and a tune or two). The recording itself is a masterpiece (Thank you Jeff Martin and Studio E) and the choice of songs is inspired. If you like sea songs, love songs, story songs, nonsense songs, and the re-working of old tunes, then this album is for you. Check it out. You won't be disappointed. |
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21 May 09 - 04:51 PM (#2637928) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: GUEST,Scenic Acres Riggy's voice breathes life into each bold, wise, saucy, wayfaring charcater. Colorful arrangements transport the listener across oceans and back home again. A great work of art. |
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21 May 09 - 06:21 PM (#2638007) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: GUEST,kim hughes Riggy's CD is at the top of my listening stack now -- I moved it up after reading the other reviews! Knowing Riggy, I know it will be good. Add in all the other great performers: how can it miss? best, Kim |
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21 May 09 - 06:54 PM (#2638029) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: GUEST I've been listening to your cd. I was impressed by the recording quality and the way you arranged your guest musicians. I especially like "The Merry Andrew" and your version of "Bold Doherty", which also is a favorite of mine from Dervish. You should be proud of this project! |
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26 May 09 - 09:23 PM (#2641572) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: GUEST,Oz Childs I have the great good fortune to hear Riggy from time to time at a "celtic slow session" where I live. His songs and music are always perfect. It is really delightful to have so many of his best songs and tunes on this new CD. I think my favorites are "Off to California" -- a tune I've played for years, but who knew there were words? -- and "Staines Morris" which is just hauntingly beautiful. But pretty much everything is great. Highly recommended! |
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26 May 09 - 11:53 PM (#2641622) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: GUEST,Guest Since moving to the East Coast I've missed hearing Riggy at Fisherman's Wharf. It's great to hear him again on this fine collection of songs. |
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27 May 09 - 02:21 AM (#2641646) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: GUEST,celi |
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27 May 09 - 07:25 AM (#2641795) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: olddude Really gooe music Joe thank you for the post ...great material and excellent performance super job Riggy Dan |
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27 May 09 - 09:16 AM (#2641878) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: Charley Noble This certainly looks and sounds like an interesting CD. Cheerily, Charley Noble |
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27 May 09 - 02:21 PM (#2642060) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: Suzuki C Riggy's voice is somehow both kingly and humble. The songs and presentations on this CD make for an enchanting listening experience. I also heard Riggy did a recording of seafaring songs. I'd like to know how to get my hands on one of those. |
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27 May 09 - 04:51 PM (#2642180) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: RiGGy Hi Suzuki You can get one here: http://www.riggy.com/samples.html It's the second one down from the top. Thanks for asking ! Riggy ps: Welcome to MudCat !! |
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01 Jun 09 - 10:07 PM (#2646059) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: GUEST,Lyons Filmer, co-host of "The Celtic Univers I had Riggy Rackin as my guest this past Saturday evening, on KWMR. (We're at 90.5 Point Reyes and 89.9 Bolinas, and we stream live at www.kwmr.org. "The Celtic Universe" airs Saturdays, 6-8 pm PT, hosted by either Loretta Farley or me, Lyons Filmer.) Riggy's new album "Somewhere in Between" is a delight, and well produced by Jeff Martin at Studio E in Sebastopol CA (a very nice venue too). Riggy is joined by several other fine musicians, including two of my favorite'voices': Sylvia Herold and Shay Black. Riggy's singing is sweetly laid back and warm, relaxed; not a 'perfect'voice. His music choices range from the very touching "The Old Man" to the sprightly tune "Trip to Paris" which Riggy describes as "folk-meets-Baroque..." Two of my favorite genres! While the overall sound of the album is 'folk' rather than 'celtic,' it's an album I like playing on KWMR's "Celtic Universe." I am not a musician but a keen fan of the sound of concertina and accordian. On Saturday evening, I asked Riggy to explain the distinctions and subtleties between them. It's quite complex, but I hope I grasped a few essentials. Now I know also to listen for the difference in sound between the English and the Anglo concertina. The latter, he explained, plays separate notes on the in and out, like a harmonica. I am listening to "Hole in the Wall" with the really pretty sound of Riggy's English concertina! Enjoy "Somewhere in Between" (title line from Ernie Noyes' song "Moss." |
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02 Jun 09 - 03:56 PM (#2646791) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: GUEST,Gordon Riggy is true American original, he gets to the root of what originally made Americana great! |
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04 Jun 09 - 02:14 PM (#2648383) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: GUEST,Chris Lunt I met Riggy at Boaz Accordions about 8 years ago, and have followed his music with interest since. What I like about all his albums (and this latest one as well), is that I can sing along. I like some other artists (Cara Dillon, for instance) who inspire me to sing along, but I just don't have the range. There are other albums I listen to and love, but the songs never come into my head except when I'm listening. I find with Riggy's stuff that I end up walking around the house singing it to myself. "Drink Good Ale..." |
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05 Jun 09 - 08:40 PM (#2649554) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: GUEST,Cormac Having only heard Riggy occasionally sing a song at a noisy session or house party, it is so great to hear his new CD" Somewhere in Between" This CD is full of great songs, with beautiful arrangements, and Riggy's voice at it's best. You can hear Riggy perform regularly at the Sunday Afternoon Session, (not too noisy) in Fairfax, CA, at The Sleeping Lady Restaurant and Bar, from 2:30 to 5:30pm. |
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17 Jun 09 - 09:01 PM (#2659024) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: bseed(charleskratz) Riggy, I'm kinda late posting this. I received your CD about 36 hours after I had ordered it--amazing service. Of course, you're just up the road a piece. It is a very beautiful performance, my only criticism is that there just wasn't enough of just Riggy and his beautiful instrument. The accompanying players are all fine, all the arrangements are terrific, your singing is beautiful. I suppose your earlier albums have more of your solo work, so I'll have to buy them as I can budget them. Thanks, Charles By the way, do you know my friend Barney Brown, owner of Copperfield Books? |
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19 Jun 09 - 10:52 AM (#2660205) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: GUEST,Ad van Eijk Has Riggyn Rackin a website ? |
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19 Jun 09 - 12:20 PM (#2660260) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: Barry Finn http://www.riggy.com/ Riggy Barry |
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21 Jun 09 - 05:36 PM (#2661704) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: SaltyWalt Well, I've been trying to wait and let my elders weigh in on this CD, but I can't waits no more! I've been listening to Riggy for years, enjoying his other recordings in the way we folkies often do: listening to specific songs when the mood hits, or when there's research to be done. This CD's different. It pulls off something quite difficult. It walks the edge of "overproduction" without ever falling into the Abyss. It is a skill rarely found. Riggy has been performing for decades, and his experience shows in this accomplishment. I could comment on each song in turn, but it would begin to repeat the words "I'm not doing this justice" as I recognize again and again that to describe the subtle theatrics woven throughout would make them sound garish. They are not. I'm very concious of the lure of a production value that make your recording sound so "professional" that it ceases to be folk music. We all want our recordings to sound good, to give fans good value for supporting us - not to offer them something that sounds like it was recorded in a basement on a shoebox recorder. I've heard a number of people miss the mark: Tracks too clean, reverb, unnecessary choruses or harmonies, pianos on sea chanteys, and other ways that dehumanize these tunes. Riggy gives a high quality product, clearly produced, that never sounds like it's from the "Folk / Sountrack" bargain bin. I hear the echoes of ancient halls, medieval fanfare, the camaraderie of English fields and lonesome western trails, broken by gypsies dancing at a Jewish wedding, shipboard songs and a few more recent offerings. It asks you to sing along while demanding that you listen. It shows Riggy's desire to give us different versions of songs, sometimes just by making familiar ones new again. For example; In the "Staines Morris" and "Younger Everday" there are a few (slight)theatrical flourishes that take one's mind not so much to a renaissance faire, as to that idealized place of pagentry that that probably first drew most of us to this music anyway. Irish songs so delightfully understated where most performers would camp them up. A Canter's voice with a firmness of back up that reminds me of the best (and least dated) songs of the 60's Folk Rock. Don't let the track titles fool you though, a few of the ones that I didn't recognize by title are actually renamed favorites. This CD is a good representation of Riggy's repitoire, its flavors and imagination, as I've heard it over a few years. |
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21 Jun 09 - 08:41 PM (#2661798) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: paulhenrys I live in Riggy's area and have had a chance to hear him live several times. When I heard about the album, I snatched it up, but I didn't know what to expect, as I had always heard him solo. Well, the album is really good, lots of fine musicians on it. I like the instrumentation, the arrangements, and I love the selection of songs. I've always liked Riggy's voice, part American twang, part Celtic lilt, assured but not strident, like a friend just sat down in my home to sing for awhile. Well worth having. I got a few copies to send to friends. |
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21 Jun 09 - 11:02 PM (#2661863) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: bseed(charleskratz) Salty Walt, a terrific review... you've said it as I felt it. Charles |
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24 Jun 09 - 12:36 PM (#2663608) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: radriano Riggy Rackin's new CD "Somewhere in Between" is a real joy to listen to. I've known Riggy many years - we used to perform as a duet called "R&R Ashore." Riggy's new cd shows us his ability to do complex arrangements as well as solo voice and concertina. There's a fine line between complex arrangements and ones that are way too busy and Riggy pulls it off well. Excellent concertina work, nice vocals and great song choices make this lovely album the perfect gift so get multiple copies and you won't have to worry about holiday shopping for the rest of the year. Believe me, you won't be dissapointed with this recording. Radriano (Richard Adrianowicz) |
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03 Jul 09 - 04:48 PM (#2670939) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: GUEST,Jerry Fabiano Riggy, Lovin your CD man! Good songs and tunes, and excellent arrangements! Really well done. Jerry |
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06 Jul 09 - 10:11 AM (#2672811) Subject: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere RELEASE PARTY-July 10 From: RiGGy Hi Folks !! Finally it's coming ~ not quite 3 months after the actual release of Somewhere in Between. It's gonna be really good. Well-rehearsed band. Catered by fine Nepalese restaurant. I'm sharing the bill with the lovely and talented Kate Price who also completed a CD at Studio E this Spring. Please join us in celebrating these achievements capturing our life's work. Email me for directions to StudioE in rural south Sebastopol. Doors open @7pm Concert @8 $10 Admission Riggy |
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07 Jul 09 - 07:34 PM (#2674258) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: bseed(charleskratz) Uh, Riggy, just what day is this? Charles |
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07 Jul 09 - 08:25 PM (#2674287) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: michaelr Friday, July 10. |
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07 Jul 09 - 08:48 PM (#2674304) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: RiGGy Thanks Michael ! |
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08 Jul 09 - 12:45 AM (#2674393) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: GUEST,John Caulfield lovely cd Riggy! |
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08 Jul 09 - 09:27 PM (#2675324) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: GUEST,Rebecca King I continue to be impressed with this CD. The production values are higher than your average folk CD, while keeping the sweet and sometimes sad emotions that pour through these beautiful tunes. |
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11 Jul 09 - 05:22 PM (#2677761) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: michaelr The concert was excellent! Some of Sonoma County's best musicians expertly backed up Riggy and Kate who took turns at lead vocals and gave us the high points of their respective CDs. Fine singers and players, the both of them, and mature in their craft/art. I counted the following instruments being played: 2 violins 1 viola 1 octave mandolin 1 mandolin 1 12-string guitar 1 upright bass 2 6-string guitars 2 hummels 1 hammered dulcimer 1 lap harp 1 folk harp 1 accordion 1 concertina 1 recorder ...and I probably left something out. There must have been 200+ strings on the stage. Amazingly, they all sounded pretty much in tune. All in all a triumphant evening. Cheers, Michael |
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11 Jul 09 - 10:01 PM (#2677934) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: GUEST,Guest David Jones Like to get that CD from my old friend Riggy, Rickie? Rackin. Is he still in the Bay area? |
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11 Jul 09 - 10:21 PM (#2677943) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: olddude Joe thank you, this is good stuff Riggy, first time I heard you music great job ... wow Thanks for the heads up Joe Dan |
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30 Aug 09 - 09:00 AM (#2712083) Subject: RE: Riggy Rackin CD: Somewhere in Between From: GUEST,Lawrence The sound of a friend's voice, singing familiar and new, to me, songs, well arranged and produced, lifts the heart and gets the toes tapping. Who could ask for anything more? |
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02 Jan 24 - 10:52 PM (#4194747) Subject: Riggy Rackin CD: Another Country Shore From: Joe Offer Riggy Rackin came out with another album on March 4, 2023. It is available on Bandcamp: https://riggyrackin.bandcamp.com/album/another-country-shore
Another Country Shore (2023)
https://riggyrackin.bandcamp.com/ |
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03 Jan 24 - 01:19 AM (#4194750) Subject: Riggy Rackin CD: Simple From: Joe Offer SIMPLE (2020) by Riggy Rackin
released March 20, 2020 https://riggyrackin.bandcamp.com/ |
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03 Jan 24 - 01:24 AM (#4194751) Subject: Riggy Rackin CD: Nautical, Pastoral and Pub Song From: Joe Offer Nautical, Pastoral and Pub Song by Riggy Rackin
https://riggyrackin.bandcamp.com/ |
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03 Jan 24 - 01:31 AM (#4194752) Subject: Riggy Rackin CD: Search Hills and Valleys Through From: Joe Offer Search Hills and Valleys Through by Riggy Rackin
https://riggyrackin.bandcamp.com/ |