Uncle Earl: Raise a Ruckus

If you haven't yet heard Uncle Earl's new seven song sampler CD, "Raise a Ruckus", you're in for a treat! The varying styles of the songs provide a great introduction for anyone new to the group and will leave fans eager for more - release coincides with the January tour in the Mid-Western states, and will be followed by a new full-length CD in the Spring.

Each of the g'Earls sings lead on one of the five main vocal numbers, which are mainly arrangements of traditional songs, with one striking new composition. In each case, one or more will provide harmony support, and there is also some fine instrumental work, both in lead passages and ensemble playing, including one full traditional fiddle tune.

The set kicks off with "Stacker Lee", a murder ballad in which menace and pathos mingle with touches of wry humour. Here, Kristin Andreassen's blues-influenced interpretation works well in blending the narrative with the string band backing.

"Little Annie" and "Keys to the Kingdom" are two songs that have been favourites for Uncle Earl fans at the concerts. K.C. Groves takes the lead in the first of these, and her voice is a perfect match for the Springtime imagery and yearning conveyed by this song. Abigail Washburn takes lead on the second, a song of strong faith, sung in almost 'a capella' field style.

Sharon Gilchrist's composition "Walker" is the newly-written song in the set -a heartfelt description of the plight of an orphan, in which loneliness and the struggle for livelihood are seen against the background of the basic needs and yearnings of a little child.

"Julianne Johnson" is string band music at its best - this number almost defies you not to want to dance! "Raise a Ruckus" is a rollicking number, in which Rayna Gellert's lead lines alternate with the full Band's ensemble chorus.

The recording rounds off with "Izze", a jingle for the Colorado soft drinks company, proving that when Old Time meets the commercial break, ingenuity knows no bounds.

(The g'Earls have included background notes on each track on the official website and anyone wanting to check the words to the songs can find them on my fan page).

Added: January 19th 2005
Reviewer: Philip Longhill
Score:
Related Link: Uncle Earl Official Website
Hits: 1629
Language: english