Fervor Coulee’s Favourite Roots Reissues and Archival Releases of 2019

Had I bought it, the Ian & Sylvia The Lost Tapes album on Stony Plain Records might have topped this list. But, I haven’t actually run across it in a store yet, so it doesn’t make the cut. But what I’ve heard on CKUA certainly makes me interested. I also didn’t purchase the Gene Clark No Other set; I’m still working through Clark’s discography, and therefore am not ready for this collection. The CCR Woodstock set was interesting, but not revelatory. Here’s the list I came up with, based on what I heard and reviews: Sparks’ Gratuitous Sax & Senseless Violins is held off the list because it isn’t the least bit connected to the roots world. I can’t afford the physical set, but I can’t stop listening to the digital!

1. Lee Hazlewood- 400 Miles from L.A. 1955-56 Light In The Attic Link to review Based on supplied CD.
2. Various Artists- Strut My Stuff Modern Harmonic Link to review Based on supplied Vinyl.
3. Michael Nesmith with Red Rhodes- Cosmic Partners-The McCabe’s Tapes 7a Records A single set captured near the end of the RCA years, Nesmith-having missed country music stardom-brought his small band including Red Rhodes from the First National Band for this intimate, 1973 performance. A soundboard recording, everything is perfect and nicely complements last year’s Troubadour set and his Hardly Strictly set of this past October. Based on purchased download.
4. Jon Brooks- Moth Nor Rust II Fallen Tree Records Link to review A re-recording of a significant album. Based on supplied CD.
5. Johnny Shines- The Blues Came Falling Down Omnivore Records Link to review.
6. Oh Susanna- Johnstown 20^th Anniversary Self-released A reminder of how much I enjoy her music, especially the early albums. May have to spend more time catching up. Based on purchased download
7. JJ Cale- Stay Around Because Music Fifteen previously unreleased gems, all originals include a track co-written with Christine Lakeland, Stay Around is remarkably consistent and strong for an odd & sods collection. Based on purchased download.
8. Steve Goodman- Artistic Hair and Affordable Art Omnivore Records Link to review. Based on supplied downloads.
9. Uncle Walt’s Band- An American in Texas Omnivore Records Based on supplied download.
10. Lone Justice- Live at the Palomino, 1983 Omnivore Records Based on supplied download.

Revision: And I have to add in Marty Stuart’s- double vinyl reissue of The Pilgrim. Perhaps his greatest artistic achievement, this nicely packaged set comes with a brief CD of non-essential outtakes. Worth the purchase price, which was significant.