Search - Jack Guthrie :: Oklahoma Hills

Forgotten Country Star Who Was Way Ahead of His Time

Joseph Brando | NJ, USA | 02/19/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Jack Guthrie is virtually forgotten about but the musical legacy left behind by him is one that should be of interest to anyone who appreciates early American country or western swing. Although all of his songs were recorded during the 1930's and 40's, many sound much more in style to those recorded during the 50's. He has a real twangy, hillbilly voice and demonstrates his yodeling ability in a few tracks. The songs run the gamut from straight country to western swing to cowboy. Like Jimmie Rodgers, his life was cut very short by tuberculosis, and also like Jimmie, he continued to record up until his dying day, knowing that he would leave behind his body of work for future generations to enjoy. So my recommendation to you is to do just that, enjoy these wonderful pieces of our American heritage superbly restored by Bear Family."

Long forgotten cousin of Woody

J. L. Kraut | Boston, MA | 05/03/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is the Bear Family presentation of Jack Guthrie, who wowed audiences and record producers alike, but burned out quickly and died of TB, like his hero Jimmie Rodgers. If you are interested in the history of country music, or fancy obscure trendy artists that you can brag to your friends about, buy this disc. Bear Family, as always, puts together an informative, great sounding disc which has most of Jack Guthrie's recorded output. One aspect that should not be overlooked: these tracks have mostly the same sidemen consisting of a five piece band -- lead guitar, fiddle, bass, rhythm guitar, voice. The musicianship is the best country music has to offer: sympathetic, interactive, hard-swinging, and masterful. The lead guitarist, Porky Freeman, is a forgotten genius of the guitar. Get this disc."