Wilson Douglas & Benny Thomasson
THE CD:“The Right Hand Fork of Rush’s Creek: Old Time Fiddling by Wilson Douglas”
Rounder 82161-0047-2
Rounder Records has reissued a 1974 album of music from the late Clay County musician Wilson Douglas, with nine additional tracks not found on the original release. The CD also includes, in a PDF format, the original liner notes, a biography, notes from reissue producer Mark Wilson and vintage photos provided by Douglas’ longtime banjo player, Kim Johnson. These are a fine complement to Douglas’ squirrely, bittersweet music.
Douglas was not happy with this album — he had to record with two musicians he had never played with before. Whatever reservations he had are made up for by the powerful music. It sure is good to hear Douglas’ vigorous bowing on “Cotton-Eyed Joe,” “Cumberland Gap” and “West Fork Gals.” The solo fiddle cuts are superb. Highly recommended, and good for what ails you!
—–
THE ALBUM” “Benny Thomasson: Legendary Texas Fiddler Recordings from 1966-1969 County Records” CO-CD-2737
These tunes were recorded by the Texas fiddling legend in the 1960s. Thomasson, who died in January 1984, really swings on “Don’t Let Your Deal Go Down.” “Hell Among the Yearlings” displays rich fiddle tone. Something he shares with Kessinger (and all great soloists) is how well thought out and seemingly spontaneous the arrangements are. Available from County Records, P.O. Box 7405 Charlottesville, Va. 22906.
– Paul Gartner
