Various Artists – Straight Outta Boone County
Just what kind of moonshine are those folks at Bloodshot Records drinking anyhow? After three excellent compilations of what they like to call insurgent country and a stable full of like-minded recording artists, the Chicago label has gotten downright conceptual with Straight Outta Boone County. WLWs Boone County Jamboree and the Midwest Hayride were two broadcasts that had always been overshadowed by the powerful mystique of the Grand Old Opry and WLSs National Barn Dance, until now. Using the two alternative country radio programs as a virtual blueprint, Bloodshot has ambitiously set out to reconstruct a missing piece of Americanas illustrious past.
With country stars such as Webb Pierce, the Delmore Brothers, Moon Mullican, Zeb and Zeke Turner, and Merle Travis gracing the airwaves from WLWs Cincinnati studio, the Boone County dynasty thrived for well over two decades. The program even became televised at one point, filling the summer replacement slot for the Jackie Gleason Show from 1951 to 1959.
On this disc, 20 groups from across the country perform classics originated by their musical forefathers who appeared on the Jamboree during the 1940s. Like any worthwhile homage, the artists showcased here succeed by evoking the humor and enthusiasm of the music they love rather than strictly emulating the original versions of these songs.
The history lesson begins with Detroits Volebeats providing a easy-shuffling rendition of Hamtramck Mama, originally performed by the York Brothers in 1940. Jeff Oakes vocal is simple and straightforward, allowing the rocking rhythm of the old tune to take first priority. On J.E. Mainers Run Mountain, Arizona band Flathead shows off the breakneck guitar playing of virtuoso string-bender Greg Swan_holm in full force. Things take a more traditional twist with Hazeldines version of the Del_more Brothers classic Im Lone_some Without You; Shawn Barton and Tonya Lamm harmonize oh so sweetly on this country weeper. The Delmores are also the inspiration for some fine hillbilly picking on Southern Moon by Ohios One Riot One Ranger.
While both Kansas Citys Holler and Chicagos Handsome Family chose to interpret songs closely associated with Merle Travis, their performances could not have sounded more different. Hollers version of No Vacancy is spirited and twangy, in marked contrast to the Hand_somes slow, mournful reading of the traditional Barbara Allen. Keeping things contemporary, Denton band Slobber_bone pounds out an absolutely anthemic version of Reno & Smileys Dark As A Dungeon. This particular rendering would befit an arena setting far more than any local barndance. Even the British chanteuse Sally Timms (of the Mekons) gets to display her angelic voice and pure country soul on a faithful interpretation of the Cowboy Copas classic Tennessee Waltz.
Exuberant western swing performances are turned in by the Lucky Stars, Caution Horse, Grievous Angels and Hardrock Gunter with the Dalhart Imperials. Kansas band Scroat Belly cowpunks out in triple time on Wayne Raneys Why Dont You Haul Off And Love Me, and the Cowslingers do some raucous rockabilly damage on the Stanley Brothers If I Lose. Moon Mullican, a perennial Boone County favorite, is favored three times over, by Robbie Fulks, the Show-Offs and Whiskeytown. On Bottom Of The Glass, North Carolinas Whiskeytown takes Mullicans astute commentary on alcoholism and turns it into a plaintive thing of beauty. Timeless and evocative, this simple rendition epitomizes the buoyant spirit of the Boone County legacy.
Theres more here, lots more. Some youll like, some you wont. Whats interesting is the breadth and depth of this compilation. Looking back to their roots with one eye on the horizon, the musicians on Straight Outta Boone County make it impossible to trivialize the history of country music.
Instead, they open up a world of possibilities for collectors, trivia buffs and music fans around the world. As the Waco Brothers close the proceedings with a rousing version of Papa Merle Travis Nine Pound Hammer, it becomes difficult not to feel slightly deferential toward the whole idea of mining ones past.
Roll on buddies, someone has to carry the load.