Sunday, April 06, 2014

Legendary ladies shine on Americana releases

The latest studio efforts from Carlene Carter and Suzy Bogguss, as well as a splendid collection of Linda Ronstadt's duets are essential for fans and the uninitiated. 

Artist: Carlene Carter
Title: Carter Girl (Rounder Records / Concord Music Group)
You might like if you enjoy: June Carter Cash, Willie Nelson, Vince Gill
Tell me more: Carlene Carter, the daughter of June Carter Cash and granddaughter Maybelle Carter, has been performing since she was four so it's not surprising that her musical DNA shines on a full-length celebration of the Carter family's musical legacy. Whether revisiting seminal Carter Family chestnuts ("Gold Watch and Chain," "Little Black Train") or performing wonderful originals (particularly the lush "Me and the Wildwood Rose"adorned by Sam Bush's mandolin and Rami Jaffee's keyboard textures), Carter Girl is magnificent. Well-placed guests include Willie Nelson, Vince Gill and Kris Kristofferson. Carter Girl will be available on April 8, 2014. Information: carlenecarter.net.
Purchase 'Carter Girl' here

Artist: Suzy Bogguss
Title: Lucky (Loyal Dutchess Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Deana Carter, Merle Haggard
Tell me more: Anyone who has ever seen Merle Haggard knows the power of his emotive songs' emotional jab thanks to a real life confessional touch. Songstress Suzy Bogguss' newly-issued tribute to the Hag, Lucky, taps into that affecting vein. Bogguss strikes deep on the romantic ballad "Today I Started Loving You Again," the bluesy "The Bottle Let Me Down" and exquisite "If We Make It Through December." Lucky is out now. Information: suzybogguss.com.
Get 'Lucky' here

Artist: Linda Ronstadt
Title: Duets (Rhino)
You might like if you enjoy: Martina McBride, Emmylou Harris
Tell me more: When Linda Ronstadt is inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on April 10, 2014, it will be the latest accomplishment in a long career that has included 11 Grammy Awards, two Academy of Country Music awards, an Emmy Award and countless gold, platinum and multiplatinum albums. Now comes the release of Duets, a rich collection of 15 songs featuring the singer showcasing her special ability to shine as a distinctive lead singer or to blend her voice effortlessly with other singers. In a wide-ranging career that has seen the Arizona native tackle everything from rock and country to world music, Duets captures that same eclectic spirit. The traditional Americana gem "Pretty Bird" is offered mostly a cappella with Laurie Lewis while a true masterpiece is presented via Hank Williams' "I Can't Help It (If I'm Still In Love With You)" with Emmylou Harris. Duets will be available on April 8. Information: rhino.com.
Buy 'Duets' here


Robert Kinsler

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