Guitar Country 1926-50 (CD)

This collection may not be for everyone, but for listeners interested in the evolution of country guitar styles, it's an ear-popping revelation. Track after track features simply stunning guitar work. Among the many highlights are Sam McGee's "The Franklin Blues," Frank Hutchison's slide work on "K.C. Blues," and the marvelous "Intoxicated Rat," by the Dixon Brothers. The swooping and receding slide work on "Birmingham Rag," by Darby & Tarlton leaves you scratching your head in amazement. The fast, smooth and bouncy version of "Lost John," by Merle Travis shows why he is so revered by guitar players everywhere. Chet Atkins eases things into the electric era with "Dizzy Strings," before things wrap up with blazing guitar runs from Jimmy Bryant on "Bryant's Boogie," and "Red Headed Polka." This is what country guitar sounded like before stomp boxes took over, and the skill on display here will either make you put your guitar down, or pick it back up again. ~ Steve Leggett