High Wide & Handsome: The Charlie Poole Project
Loudon Wainwright III · 2009
99 min · 30 tracks · blues
A vibrant fusion of traditional folk and blues, echoing the spirit of early American music with contemporary storytelling.
Top tracks — play these first
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High Wide & Handsome Start here — The title track captures the essence of the album's tribute, blending poignant lyrics with an upbeat melody that reflects Poole's spirit.
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I'm the Man Who Rode the Mule Around the World — This track stands out for its vivid storytelling and playful narrative style, embodying the whimsical yet reflective tone of Poole's original works.
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Goodbye Booze — The song illustrates Wainwright’s knack for combining humor with heartfelt emotion, making it a highlight that showcases both lyrical depth and musical charm.
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Mother's Last Farewell Kiss — This track evokes a deep sense of nostalgia and loss, providing a moment of emotional weight that contrasts beautifully with the album’s lighter songs.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- nostalgic storytelling with humor
- dynamic wave-like pacing experience
- engaging sing-along potential
- for afternoon gatherings
- reflective moments of warmth
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification
- prefer standalone tracks only
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Critical Peak — Revives interest in Charlie Poole's work, showcasing Wainwright's artistic exploration.
- Themes
- Charlie Poole tribute· early American folk· nostalgic storytelling
- Career context
- By 2009, Loudon Wainwright III was already an established artist with a rich discography; this album marked his return to exploring roots music after a series of introspective singer-songwriter albums. High Wide & Handsome is particularly significant as it pays homage to Charlie Poole, a pivotal figure in early American folk and country music, reflecting Wainwright's deepening engagement with American musical heritage.
- Stylistic neighbors
- John Prine· Steve Goodman· Ramblin' Jack Elliott
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 High Wide & Handsome Start here 2:50
- 2 Took My Gal Out Walkin' 2:32
- 3 I'm the Man Who Rode the Mule Around the World 3:35
- 4 My Mother and My Sweetheart 3:11
- 5 Bill Mason's Bride 2:55
- 6 Goodbye Booze 2:53
- 7 Old Ballyhoo 1:58
- 8 Little Waterloo 2:53
- 9 I'm Glad I'm Married 3:31
- 10 Mother's Last Farewell Kiss 4:44
- 11 Acres of Diamonds 2:47
- 12 Way Up in NYC 4:06
- 13 If I Lose 3:57
- 14 The Great Reaping Day 2:49
- 15 Where the Whippoorwill Is Whispering Goodnight 3:22
Disc 2
- 1 The Man in the Moon 2:32
- 2 The Deal 4:09
- 3 No Knees 2:22
- 4 Moving Day 2:37
- 5 Old and Only in the Way 3:44
- 6 Ragtime Annie 3:33
- 7 Sweet Sunny South 2:41
- 8 The Letter That Never Came 3:07
- 9 Awful Hungry Hash House 4:28
- 10 Rowena 2:32
- 11 Didn't He Ramble 3:59
- 12 Ramblin' Blues 3:59
- 13 Charlie's Last Song 4:59
- 14 Beautiful 4:00
- 15 High Wide & Handsome (reprise) 2:07
What to play next
10 Songs for the New Depression
2010
Continues the blend of folk and personal storytelling with a modern touch.
Recovery
2008
Sets the stage with similar themes and style, enhancing the listening experience.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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