Reviewed by Tony May

Tell me now, how often have you known me to use words like "classic" and "legendary". Rarely, to say the least. They apply here, though. Classic legendary recording, first released in 1973, and sounding as striking and powerful as ever. The power lies in the stark simplicity of it all. Two stunning voices, not sweet or smooth, but rather rough-edged and leather-tough. Sort of female early Dylan sounding. Brilliant old-time songs bursting with timeless charm, songs about coal mining, rolling hills and the earthy blues about the harsh poverty and trials of rural life. Instrumentation is kept sparse, some fiddle, banjo, bass, mandolin, autoharp and guitar used very sparingly. Great acappella vocals and gospel material like "A Few More Years Shall Roll"; nice to hear again Wilma Lee Cooper's dramatic "Tomorrow I'll Be Gone". Fantastic, stunning music on this CD, covering an important slice of musical history.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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