American Ballads

Album Notes & Community Reviews

Further cementing his role as the preeminent archivist of United States folklore, the influential singer and instrumentalist gathers a wide array of historical working-class narratives. The stark, unaccompanied vocal and banjo performances provided an essential, highly authentic repertoire that deeply informed the looming urban folk revival. The academically rigorous yet warmly performed collection stands as a monument to America's rich oral traditions.