Best of the Vanguard Years cover

Best of the Vanguard Years

Ramblin' Jack Elliott · 2000

72 min · 25 tracks · country · traditional folk music

A heartfelt collection of traditional folk and country tunes, rich with storytelling and emotional depth.

Why this album works

This album serves as a significant retrospective of Elliott's career, drawing attention to his contributions during the folk revival era. It highlights tracks that have influenced generations of musicians and has been praised for its authentic portrayal of American roots music.
Best for
heartfelt storytelling through song wave-like pacing with peaks nostalgic reflections on life
Context
By the time 'Best of the Vanguard Years' was released in 2000, Ramblin' Jack Elliott had established himself as a key figure in American folk music. This compilation showcases his work from the 1960s and captures his influence on the genre during a period when he collaborated with artists like Bob Dylan and Joan Baez.
Stylistic neighbors
Jerry Reed· Johnny Cash· Jerry Lee Lewis

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Roving Gambler 3:35
  • 2 Will the Circle Be Unbroken Standout 2:37
  • 3 Diamond Joe 2:58
  • 4 Guabi Guabi 4:43
  • 5 Sowing on the Mountain 2:15
  • 6 Roll on Buddy 2:01
  • 7 1913 Massacre Standout 3:52
  • 8 House of the Rising Sun Standout 3:27
  • 9 Shade of the Old Apple Tree 2:42
  • 10 Black Snake Moan 3:25
  • 11 Portland Town 1:59
  • 12 More Pretty Girls 2:14
  • 13 Danville Girl 2:53
  • 14 John Hardy 2:27
  • 15 Dark as a Dungeon 2:53
  • 16 Hard, Ain't It Hard 2:40
  • 17 Don't Think Twice, It's All Right 3:16
  • 18 I Got a Woman 2:33
  • 19 Railroad Bill 3:57
  • 20 I Never Will Marry 2:29
  • 21 At My Window 2:09
  • 22 Blue Eyed Elaine 2:18
  • 23 Wildwood Flower 2:25
  • 24 Ranger's Command 3:32
  • 25 Willie Moore 2:53

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata