Red Allen's 1964 album "Bluegrass," released under Folkways Records, is a quintessential piece of early bluegrass music that showcases the raw, powerful vocals and mandolin skills of Allen and his collaborator, Frank Wakefield. This album is a testament to the "high, lonesome sound" that defines bluegrass, with Allen's voice leading the charge. The album features a mix of traditional bluegrass tunes and original compositions, all delivered with a high-energy, authentic sound that captures the essence of the genre.
The tracklist includes classics like "Little Maggie," "Deep Elem Blues," and "Are You Washed in the Blood?" alongside lesser-known gems such as "New Camptown Races" and "The Little Girl and the Dreadful Snake." Each song is performed with a level of skill and passion that highlights the musicianship of Allen, Wakefield, and their band, The Kentuckians. The album's production, handled by a young David Grisman, ensures that the sound is crisp and the performances are front and center.
At just over 31 minutes, "Bluegrass" is a concise yet powerful collection of songs that offers a glimpse into the world of bluegrass music in the early 1960s. Red Allen's contributions to this album solidified his status as one of the most important figures in the genre, and his work continues to influence bluegrass and newgrass musicians today. Whether you're a long-time fan of bluegrass or a newcomer to the genre, this album is a must-listen for anyone interested in the roots of American music.
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