Once Upon a Time
The Kingston Trio · 1969
54 min · 24 tracks · traditional folk music
A rich tapestry of traditional folk melodies woven with harmonies and poignant storytelling.
Why this album works
'Once Upon a Time' is significant due to its reflection of the shifting cultural landscape of the late 1960s, capturing themes of social justice and change. The album includes tracks like 'Police Brutality,' which directly addresses contemporary issues, demonstrating the Trio's willingness to engage with political topics during a time of civil unrest.
- Best for
- rich storytelling with harmonies wave-like pacing for immersion nostalgic reflections on life
- Context
- By the time 'Once Upon a Time' was released in June 1969, The Kingston Trio had already established themselves as pioneers in the folk music scene since their debut in 1958. This album came during a period of artistic maturation for the group, which sought to adapt their sound while retaining their signature blend of humor and social commentary.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Isabel Parra· Ángel Parra· Víctor Jara
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
Disc 1
- 1 Hard Travelin' 2:11
- 2 Early Mornin' Rain 2:40
- 3 The M.T.A. 2:55
- 4 Tomorrow Is a Long Time 3:30
- 5 Rovin' Gambler/This Train 1:45
- 6 Police Brutality Standout 0:49
- 7 One Too Many Mornings 1:58
- 8 Colours 3:16
- 9 A Day in Our Room 0:39
- 10 Wimoweh 1:44
- 11 Tom Dooley Standout 2:50
- 12 Goodnight Irene 2:36
Disc 2
- 1 Hard, Ain't It Hard 2:31
- 2 Get Away John 2:25
- 3 The Ballad of the Shape of Things 3:41
- 4 Greenback Dollar 3:22
- 5 Babe, You've Been on My Mind (Mama, You've Been on My Mind) 2:10
- 6 Tijuana Jail 2:10
- 7 Silicone Bust 1:12
- 8 I'm Going Home 1:19
- 9 Where Have All the Flowers Gone? Standout 2:56
- 10 Scotch and Soda 1:57
- 11 Blind Date 2:05
- 12 Saints Go Marching In 1:54
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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