Clark Jones - Early American Folk Music and Songs

Folkways Records - LP
US, 1982
Folk / Dulcimer / Ethnomusicology 

Beautiful Folkways Recordings of early North American folk songs played on handmade instruments and that shwocases the celestial sound of mountain dulcimers. Weirdly not on Discogs.

What I miss the most about US records crates might be the ubiquitous Folkways section. A catalogue seemingly infinite, ranging from revered American Folk & early Jazz recordings (Harry Smith's legendary anthologies, Mary Lou Williams's gospel jazz masterpiece) to the most novelty records (these instrumental improvisations with turkeys and wolves,for example).

This Clark Jones record belongs to the first category. He plays one of my favorite kind of string instruments, American Folk Dulcimers, on most songs - instrumental or not. There are some blissful instrumental moments (Rhododendron, Under The Magnolia or Simple Gifts) , but my favorite moments are the sad ballads ands carols like The Holy Bears A Berry or I Will Give My Love An Apple. For those who did not know, American Folk music is not al about cowboys virility and lonesome rangers, and this Folkways Record is a great example of how celestial early American music can feel. (VG+ / VG+ complete with booklet)

Tracklist

1. Rhododendron
2. The Rich Lady Over The Sea
3. I Will Give My Lover An Apple
4. Under The Magnolia
5. The Holly Bears A Berry
6. Rye Whiskey
7. John Barleycorn
8. The Paw-Paw Patch
9. Watermelon Suite
10. Beans, Bacon and Gravy
11. The Seeds of Love
12. Aiken Drum
13. The Cherry Tree Carol
14. The Young Man Who Wouldn't Hoe Corn
15. The Praties They Grow Small
16. Simple Gifts