Memorial CD • Gene Bluestein Retrospective Recordings 1956-1986
Features 21 songs, including:
Recordings from the Gene Bluestein Archives
Cuts from Gene Bluestein Folkways lps (late 50s & early 60s)
Cuts from Bluestein Family lps never released on CD
Live concert recordings, solo and with the Bluestein Family (see reviews below)
Pete Seeger wrote: “spent a fine hour and more listening to Gene and family and friends, and reading the booklet. I hope it gets heard around the world, giving hope for the human race.”
Review from Sing Out! magazine Gene Bluestein qualified as a modern day renaissance man: a folklorist, professor, author, and last, but certainly not least, musician and singer. Gene Bluestein: Retrospective 1956-86 captures this last aspect by pulling together various recordings from a long, productive career. Steeped in history, this album gives witness to one man’s ongoing commitment to spreading traditional music.
Review from the Folknik (San Francisco Folk Society) What an amazing CD! Gene Bluestein was a man who defied categories and we are all richer for his skills and diversity. Here are songs from many traditions – Norwegian, French Canadian, Caribbean steel drum, Yiddish, Appalachian both white and black, Scottish – all played with style and substance. The songs are grand. You’ll probably find yourself taking time to learn some of them. His love for the people from whom he gathered music is evident in every cut. But this CD manages to be both entertaining and something more significant at the same time. It offers us a glimpse into the work and life of a complex man; one who saw the similarities in seemingly different cultures. The notes and pictures have been beautifully put together to compliment the music. You’ll learn about Gene’s life, travels, family and his impact on the rest of us. This CD will become a treasured part of your collection. Highly recommended!–Ray Frank