The following are ‘re-mixed’ versions of five of the songs on the album.
More of a steady tempo, more consistent in feel and tone,
they sound a little more like what we expect a song to sound like.
The album featured on this website was put together by assembling a collection of one-of-a-kind archival recordings, field recordings made by legendary collectors such as Alan Lomax & Herbert Halpert in the 1920's – 1950's, and then edited, reconfigured, and surrounded with samples created by WalkWest that call to mind specific styles of American regional and popular music. The goal was to create a modern historical mash-up, and to wind up somewhere between traditional folk song, film music and re-mix. You can listen to the entire album by clicking on "A Yankee Clipper In Congo Square," and selecting the 'Listen to the album' prompt.
To order the CD version:
To order the digital version: Download the Album
These songs take me on a sentimental journey, tipping a hat to the creators of the best things music has offered us over so many centuries. The fusion of historical music, steeped in emotion and journaling our past, overlayed with modern instrumentals and mixing delivers a provocative way to happily rediscover this music that many have never had an opportunity to enjoy before.
At first the music captures my undivided attention as I excitedly seek out all the different components that have been sewn together like a musical quilt; but after listening a few times the music comes together and delivers the benefits of that same musical quilt. After listening a while, I received a better understanding of the respect given to the historical context of the music, such as the rhythms and instruments previously used. I can appreciate the challenges this fusion of styles must have endured to keep the continuity of history while adding the contemporary musical language.
Sealion Woman, Sealion is a great acknowledgement of the original song intended as a playground song sung by children while giving it life for today’s music scene.
Bravo on successfully realizing a passionate dream. The original artists of these songs would be so proud.
Thank you, Catie. You’ve articulated so well what it was that I was trying to do! Happy to hear it resonates.
loved the song, glad Robo was part of it
These tracks are all mind-blowing and wonderful: Each piece is like its own little movie. Images fly by quickly, rich in content, vibe and soulfulness. And while they move quickly, they take you on a journey between musical ages with an undeniable focus an “our” Americana. This is a truly original and inspired blend of technology and heart. Congratulations Steve, this is truly beautiful work!! BC