Deep Roots Magazine

Deep Roots Magazine

Roots Music and Meaningful Matters

 
 

 

Ladders to Heaven: A Legend

Famous as a children's book author in the mid-1800s, JULIANA HORATIA EWING was also devoted to 'the practical cultivation of flowers,' as is evident in her paaen to lilies in 'Ladders to Heaven: A Legend,' published in 1891, f...
by David McGee
 

 
 

The Big Land

Ever more ambitious, ALISON BROWN returns with THE SONG OF THE BANJO, with KEB' MO outstanding on 'What's Going On,' and our reviewer likening the instrumental portions to Smetana's 'The Moldau.' Really.
by David McGee
 

 

 

Bob Marovich’s Gospel Picks

Must-hear new gospel albums and singles, including new music from EARNEST PUGH
by David McGee
 

 
 

Newport Folk Festival Goes Roots-y (But Hasn’t It Always Been So?)

A surprise set by JAMES TAYLOR was the highlight of highlights at this year's NEWPORT FOLK FESTIVAL. Our man on the scene, IRA MAYER, a festival veteran, reflects on the lineup's not-so-folky flavor.
by David McGee
 

 

 

Channeling Beatles, In Rarified Air

In their first new CD since 2012, the HOT CLUB OF SAN FRANCISCO reimagines tunes by Lennon-McCartney and George Harrison in the gypsy jazz style of DJANGO REINHARDT.
by David McGee
 

 
 

Art Songs, Folk Texts

In praise of POPULAIRES, a fascinating exploration of art songs with folk texts, by French Algerian soprano AMEL BRAHIM-DJELLOUL and pianist Nicolas Jouve, Reviewed by ROBERT HUGILL of Planet Hugill.
by David McGee
 

 

 

It’s Alvis, Not Elvis

Remembering ALVIS WAYNE, a rockabilly pioneer that never got his just due but leaves behind some memorable music in the wake of his passing on July 31.
by David McGee
 

 
 

Classical Perspectives: Richly Sophisticated

In life he was eclipsed by the shadow of his great pupil, Henry Purcell, and ensuing centuries have seen the 17th century composer JOHN BLOW nigh on to completely forgotten. Until this glorious moment.
by David McGee