Sandy Bull

Sandy Bull is known for some of the first extended instrumental compositions for guitar that incorporated elements of folk, jazz, and Indian and Arabic-influenced dronish modes. This album, taken from two nights of performances in February 1969 recorded at San Francisco's legendary Matrix, finds Bull experimenting with guitar electronics, as well as working out on the acoustic instruments that were the mainstay of his Vanguard Records Fantasias and Inventions albums. Packaging features rare photos and detailed liner notes.

…or a-live in 1976, as was the case. You'd be forgiven for thinking the Bull had passed our earthly coil after 1972's Demoliton Derby, but you'd also be wronger than hell. Sandy had plenty left to give – both musically and to the people in his life – and he dug deep on this May night of some 35 years past at the Berkeley Community Center. The music and spoken intros give a more soulful portrait of Sandy Bull than his records often did, yet he's still bringing fresh Oud-jams with a vengeance. Plus The Rhythm Ace keeping time…how can you miss? A compelling addition to the discography of one of America's true originals.

…or a-live in 1976, as was the case. You'd be forgiven for thinking the Bull had passed our earthly coil after 1972's Demoliton Derby, but you'd also be wronger than hell. Sandy had plenty left to give – both musically and to the people in his life – and he dug deep on this May night of some 35 years past at the Berkeley Community Center.

This, the first-ever reissue of Steel Tears, features the newly remastered album alongside Endventions, four previously unissued tracks recorded by Bull before he passed away in 2001. Wrapping up the disc is three tribute tracks recorded in Nashville by a band comprised of some pretty well known Sandy Bull fans. The tribute band includes Jeff Hanna (Nitty Gritty Dirt Band), Matraca Berg, Mickey Raphael (Willie Nelson), Kevin Welch, Glenn Word (Mark Knopfler) and Harry Stinson (Marty Stuart). “Love Is Forever” features Sandy’s vocals with Matraca Berg singing back up and Mickey Raphael adding harmonica. Jeff Hanna from The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band takes lead on “I May Never Pass Out” and the ensemble wraps up the tribute tracks with a run through the instrumental “Jesse James Jam.”

Ace Records’4-CD box set Make It Your Sound, Make It Your Scene: Vanguard Records and the 1960s Musical Revolution is a comprehensive chronicle of the Vanguard sound and style, taking in not only folk, but blues, gospel, country and even rock. (The label’s jazz and classical forays, alas, shall have to wait until another day.) As such, it’s a hugely impressive monument to a decade-plus of recordings that influenced a generation of blues-rock and psychedelic performers as the 1960s made way for the 1970s. But it’s even more of a revelation, for good or ill, that the universal themes reflected in these artists’ works still resonate today. This set isn’t for casual, background listening, but instead offers a serious (and seriously entertaining) glimpse back at a heady time for American culture…

The American Primitive/Guitar Soli "movement" got a kick start in 1994 when Rhino issued Return of the Repressed: The John Fahey Anthology. It created so much interest that Fahey began playing music festivals and shows as a headliner again. Meanwhile, younger players like Jack Rose and compilation producer Glenn Jones, among others long obsessed with this music, found more opportunities to tour and record.

The American Primitive/Guitar Soli "movement" got a kick start in 1994 when Rhino issued Return of the Repressed: The John Fahey Anthology. It created so much interest that Fahey began playing music festivals and shows as a headliner again. Meanwhile, younger players like Jack Rose and compilation producer Glenn Jones, among others long obsessed with this music, found more opportunities to tour and record.

Many of my old folk LPs (and LPs in general) have been displaced, or scratched beyond recognition. Alternatively, if you sold most of your vinyl during the onset of the late 80s, Compact Disc craze then this 3-CD set should signify a welcome event. This offering features a comprehensive overview to coincide with “Vanguard Records” capitalization of folk music’s increasing popularity commencing back in 1950. Naturally, these selections are culled from the now historical “Vanguard Records” archives. The three CDs are divided into distinct folk based genres: Roots of Folks (CD-1), Singers & Songwriters (CD-2), and Folk Blues (CD-3). You will hear Cisco Houston’s patriotic classic, “This Land Is Your Land,” and Doc Watson’s “Tom Dooley.” Vietnam protest singers such as Phil Ochs and the inimitable Northern California band, “Country Joe & The Fish are featured as well. Essentially, this three-pack is awash with one masterwork after another. The producers also include an informative timeline style glimpse of the progression and outgrowths of folk.
This wonderfully appealing product conjures up memories of both the good and bad while also serving as a testament to America’s beauty and wherewithal. More importantly – we are treated to a series of topical statements from many of this genre’s most prolific raconteurs. Highly recommended.