Fiddles and Forests

I bought this CD for my wife for Christmas, and to be honest, I didn't have high expectations. As near as I can tell, it was recorded and produced at the Missouri Department of Conservation Headquarters in Jefferson City. For ten bucks, I figured it was worth a shot as a stocking-stuffer.

When we popped it into the tray on Christmas day, I think it's fair to say that we were both stunned. The quality of the music is on par with the very best of commercial recordings.

Here is the description from MDC's web page:

"You might call it an "Ozark" River Dance. Our new folk-music CD is a spirited mix of traditional Celtic jigs, foot-stomping Ozark bluegrass, and narrative enhanced by nature sounds. The CD brings to life the Scots-Irish and their trek from the lowlands of Scotland to the shores of America, and on to Missouri Ozark country. With more than 20 songs, "Fiddles and Forests" is the brainchild of fiddle player and Department employee Mike Fraser. The concept began as a live program in which he used music to entertain audiences while educating them about Ozark forests and history. The two-disc set features the story and songs on one disc and the music alone on the other."

I live in central Missouri where the ethnic heritage is primarily German, but I grew up in the eastern Ozarks. For that reason, I recognize more than some might, the Scots-Irish-influence on the culture of the region.

If you enjoy Celtic music, or if you are interested in the heritage of the Ozarks, pick up a copy of this recording. It's really quite good.