Kentucky Mountain Music

Released in February 2003, is the type of box set that will have old-time music lovers drawing up their holiday wish-list early. A roots music novice will probably question the size and scope of the set: Why would one state, after all, need seven full discs to document its music? But devotees know that (a) wouldn't put out anything but a quality product and (b) Kentucky holds more old-time musical riches than most states. As notes, "no other state comes even close in both terms of fascinating diversity of styles and prodigious amounts of great performances." Each disc contains 22-25 performances including fiddle tunes, string band music, and vocals from the 1920s and 1930s. A number of well-respected names make multiple appearances including , , and . There are a number of fine cuts from ( and ),and ). There's a fun, snappy version of by , and some nifty banjo work by on There are also oddities like 's about a jealous boy who poisons both himself and his true love, and the whimsical instrumental by the trio called The overall sound quality is good, though, as the liner notes point out, old recordings offer their share of problems when it comes to fidelity. The in particular were poorly recorded, leaving less room for improvement. Many kinks, however, have been ironed out, and fans will be thankful to have these recordings. This massive set is supplemented by an attractive booklet featuring good photographs and solid liner notes by . is a lovingly completed box set that will prove the perfect present for old-time fanatics everywhere. ~ Ronnie D. Lankford, Jr.