CHARLIE POOLE "You Ain't Talkin' To Me" Box set
$40 + $5 shipping

If there is anyone on earth who thought, 25 or 30 years ago, that a re-issue like this would ever appear on a major label, I would like to meet him or her! Sony Music (formerly Columbia Records), under the direction of one Hank Sapoznik has produced this amazing 3-CD set, packaged in a simulated cigar box, complete with a 36-page booklet of notes and photos, and cover art by legendary underground cartoonist (and old-time music fan) R. Crumb. There are 72 songs & tunes in all re-mastered beautifully by sound expert Chris King. Sony has done something unusual here, but it proves very interesting and instructive: the editors have included early versions of tunes that Poole recorded in the 1920's for a country audience, like the original pop and minstrel versions of such pieces as Monkey on a String (Cal Stewart), Didn't He Ramble (Arthur Collins), Baby Rose (Billy Murray) and a couple of Fred Van Eps banjo solos. In addition there are later pieces by other old-time artists who were influenced by Poole such as Dock Walsh, the Floyd County Ramblers, and the Red Fox Chasers. There are a total of 42 tracks strictly by Poole, and they are very well chosen. This amazing set will demonstrate to any and all just how great a performer, interpreter and arranger Poole was. This great package is a wonderful and deserved tribute to one of the real legends of American music. (Dave Freeman) Track list

Southern Medley: Live Performances from the 10th Annual Charlie Poole Music Festival $15 +$5 shipping

A pleasant 22-track helping of mostly old-time music recorded live at the Poole Festival in Eden, N.C. There is a good representation of talented artists here including Norman & Nancy Blake, Tony Trischka, Tom, Brad & Alice, Hungry Hash House Ramblers and the Jeanette Williams Band. Track list