In House #1813: Charlie Louvin's New Self-Titled Release

The latest in what has been a string of legends returning with new recordings in the past few years, Country Music Hall of Famer Charlie Louvin issued his first new studio recording in fifteen years this week with a new self-titled effort out on Tompkins Square. As part of The Louvin Brothers (along with Ira, who died in 1965), Charlie had a hand in one of the most influential acts in country music history, essentially defining the close harmony duet style popular in the 1940's and 50's. While Louvin's influence on country, bluegrass, alt-country, and gospel artists is important, the impressive cast of guests joining him on the new release is still somewhat staggering. Country legends like George Jones and Tom T. Hall appear on the tracklisting alongside pop giants like Elvis Costello and Wilco's Jeff Tweedy. Even more unexpected are appearances from indie musicians like Will Oldham, Lambchop's Kurt Wagner, and Clem Snide's Eef Barzelay, all of whom more than hold their own on the classic material. While the lineup will likely appear to younger listeners than Louvin's had in years, this is anything but a hipster's take on classic country. On the contrary, the versions here (aside from a little Tweedy guitar feedback) are more than faithful to the originals, which range from Louvin Brothers classics like "Great Atomic Power," to songs first made popular by the likes of Jimmie Rodgers and The Carter Family. It adds up to a rather startling declaration of continued musical relevance for the soon-to-be octogenarian Louvin, who'll be touring this spring and summer including a performance at this year's SXSW Festival in Austin, TX.


In House #1813.
Airdate: 2/22/07
Focus: New self-titled release from Charlie Louvin, plus new music from Ry Cooder, Patty Griffin, Southern Culture On the Skids, and more.

BONUS MP3s-
Charlie Louvin, from the new self-titled release:

"Why Must You Throw Dirt in My Face?" (MP3) (with George Jones)

"My Long Journey Home" (MP3) (with Paul Burch)

PLAYLIST

In House PODCAST #263