Jean Ritchie, a revered tradition-bearer from Appalachian Kentucky, invites you into her world with "Mountain Ballads," a captivating collection of traditional folk songs released on August 1, 2012, under Vantage Music. This album is a treasure trove of 10 tracks, each a testament to Ritchie's deep-rooted connection to her musical heritage and her extraordinary vocal prowess.
Spanning a diverse range of genres, including traditional folk, bluegrass, and southern gothic, "Mountain Ballads" offers a rich tapestry of sounds that are as haunting as they are enchanting. The album opens with "Fair Annie Of Lochroyan," a beautiful ballad that sets the tone for the journey ahead. Other highlights include "Barbary Allen," a poignant tale of love and loss, and "Gypsy Laddie," a lively folk song that showcases Ritchie's versatility.
Jean Ritchie's music is not just about the songs; it's about the stories they tell and the traditions they uphold. Born into a family of musicians, Ritchie learned to play the Appalachian dulcimer and began singing at a young age. Her career spanned over six decades, during which she recorded numerous albums, wrote her own material, and even adopted a male pseudonym, Than Hall, for some of her work.
"Mountain Ballads" is a testament to Ritchie's enduring legacy. It's an album that invites you to sit back, listen, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Appalachian folk music. Whether you're a longtime fan of Jean Ritchie or a newcomer to her music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
Vinylscout