Ramblin Jack Elliott A Stranger Here CD

If anybody's got a sense of history, it's Ramblin' Jack Elliott, who began his career in the 1950s, learned directly from Woody Guthrie, and influenced Bob Dylan and countless others. Confronting a possible second Great Depression in America in 2009, a 77-year-old Elliott delivers an album of blues tunes from the first one, songs he absorbed as a young man. While Elliott's agreeably worn, leathery voice inhabits songs associated with the likes of Rev. Gary Davis and Blind Willie McTell with undeniable ease, producer Joe Henry puts a twist on the proceedings. With a band that includes Van Dyke Parks, Los Lobos' David Hidalgo, and others, Henry adds just a bit of arch, modern sonic spin, providing a moody atmosphere that enhances the experience without overwhelming Elliott's performances.

Recording information: Garfield House, South Pasadena, CA (07/21/2008-07/29/2008).

Photographer: Michael "Mick" Wilson.

Personnel: Greg Leisz (acoustic guitar, dobro, mandola, mandolin); David Hidalgo (acoustic guitar, accordion); Keith Ciancia (piano, keyboards); Van Dyke Parks (piano, vibraphone); David Piltch (upright bass); Jay Bellerose (drums, percussion).

Audio Mixer: Ryan Freeland.

Dirty Linen (p.53) - "Decades of traveling are etched in his voice, which has lost none of its power, and he clearly connects profoundly with the menu of 1920s blues tunes."
Living Blues (p.51) - "Elliot is surrounded by some exceptional, inventive musicians. Producer Joe Henry has created a relaxed, almost jam-session-like atmosphere."
Billboard (p.30) - "Elliott brings a seen-it-all authenticity to this repertoire while Joe Henry's sympathetic production is pitch perfect..."
Clash (magazine) (p.108) - "Elliott's scratchy wail is displayed with ardor, complemented with simple, poignant accompaniment."
Record Collector (magazine) (pp.82-83) - 4 stars out of 5 -- "[T]he survival of hardship is celebrated as an affirmation of life, and Ramblin' Jack has done enough living for two lifetimes."