| Ralph Stanley - Ralph Stanley | |
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Reviewed by Jolene Downs
75-year-old Ralph Stanley is continuing to do what he has done since beginning his professional career in 1946. He has just released an album simply titled Ralph Stanley. This is the first of over 200 albums that Ralph has released that is solely in his own name. Sony Music is releasing this timeless treasure and T Bone Burnett is the producer. Many will recognize T Bone Burnett as the musical genius behind the critically acclaimed soundtrack from O Brother Where Art Thou.
The sound of Ralph Stanley is simply unique. He has the sound of centuries past, with incredibly soulful undertones to his songs. The majority of the songs on this album are from years ago. One of the songs can even be traced back to the time of Shakespeare. When you listen to Ralph sing what is in his heart, you are almost transported back to the Appalachian Mountains in years gone by. It is only fitting that he chose to record songs that were a part of history and folklore long before they were recorded to any albums.
The album starts off with "Lift Him Up, That's All." Like the majority of the songs on this album, it is a hymn and Ralph sings it with reverence. It sets the tone for the sound and tempo of the overall album.
"Girl From Greenbriar Shores" is one of the more upbeat songs, but not fast paced by any means. The Carter Family recorded a variation of this song in 1941. He left home to go with his love against the wishes of his family. He chose her for his wife and then she left him leaving him to remember his mom saying, "Never trust a girl from Greenbriar Shores."
"Little Mathie Grove" is the oldest song on the album. It can be traced at least back to the time of Shakespeare. It is a 'revenge' ballad. It was set long before the times of political correctness and people simply took care of things the way they felt necessary. Instead of a civil (or even uncivil) divorce, an affair could cause heads to roll - literally.
"I'll Remember You Love In My Prayers" is an a cappella selection that dates back to 1869 for it's first copyright. It is a beautiful, poetic tribute to his love.
The Cox Sisters join Ralph with background vocals in the song "Calling You." Their voices blend beautifully on the hymn from Hank Williams, Sr.. Although it is the newest song on the album, it has the same timeless sound that makes it fit perfectly.
Bottom line is that this album is an absolute treasure. It definitely has the flavor of the old-time sound and anyone that isn't into that type of music would not appreciate it for what it is. For those that understand and love the history that is behind the music of today, it is easy to see why Ralph remains one of the top names in his field. You can see why Ralph won two Grammy's at age 75 for his participation in the "O Brother Where Art Thou" soundtrack. He won Best Male Country Vocal Performance and was included in the Album of the Year award.
Song List:
Album cover used with permission of Columbia Records.
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