Suzy Bogguss’ latest studio album American Folk Songbook, is expected to be released on July 18, 2011 at Crackel Barrel Country stores; furthermore, on August 2, 2011, it is slated for a much wider release, in digital and other retail outlets.
Background on Suzy Bogguss
According to the biography section of her official website, Bogguess was the 1994 recipient of the Academy of Country Music (ACM) “Top New Female Vocalist” award, as well as the 1992 Country Music Association (CMA) “Horizon Award”; moreover, she had numerous Top 10 hits on the Billboard Country Charts including “Aces,” “Drive South,” “Hey Cinderella,” and “Outbound Plane.”
Finally, Bogguss was a part of the 2005 Grammy award-winning traditional folk project entitled The Songs of Stephen Foster.
All of these noteworthy accomplishments make Bogguss the ideal vocalist to record a traditional folk album of this caliber.
“American Folk Songbook”
Her 17-track CD opens with the upbeat “Shady Grove,” and it’s followed by the mellifluous traditional recording “Shenandoah.”
In the popular “Red River Valley,” Bogguss’ vocals are reminiscent to those of veteran country singer Emmylou Harris.
On “Rock Island Line,” Bogguss narrates the first half of it, and breaks into faster vocals as the song progresses.
The album closes with “Beautiful Dreamer,” a slow-moving, yet soothing tune.
Standout Tracks
Bogguss delivers a stunning and haunting vocal performance on “Erie Canal,” in which she dusts off the original, and gives it a more rustic and bittersweet feel.
Equally beautiful are the ballads “All the Pretty Little Horses,” “Johnny Has Gone for a Soldier,” and “Sweet Betsy from Pike.”
The up-tempo “Ol’ Dan Tucker” is equally catchy and contains banjo accompaniment, meanwhile on “Git Along Little Doggies,” Bogguss showcases her yodeling ability.
The highlight track on the album is “Wildwood Flower,” but it strays away from the Carter Family version. It is closer to the original composition, which was written by Maud Irving, which was initially called “I’ll Twine ‘Mid the Ringlets.” This tune is worthy of the repeat button, and it is safe to say that both June Carter Cash and Mother Maybelle Carter would have been proud of Bogguss on her rendition of this beloved classic.
Conclusion
With “American Folk Songbook,” Suzy Bogguss proves that she is like fine wine. She only gets better with age! From start to finish, her latest studio effort is exquisite, and she is able to record and produce a timeless and nostalgic album, featuring seventeen well-crafted tracks.
More than any of her previous records, it truly showcases the versatility, distinction, control, and power of Bogguss' voice.
It is recommended for fans of the country songstress, as well as lovers of traditional country, bluegrass, and folk music.
For more information on Suzy Bogguss, her music and her latest album, please visit her official website.
Source
- "About Section" of Suzy Bogguss' official website. Retrieved June 26, 2011.
Markos Papadatos - Markos Papadatos holds over six years journalism experience, authoring over 700 articles, many of which are feature profile interviews.
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