What makes Slow Train Through Georgia by Norman Blake notable?

Slow Train Through Georgia is significant for its role in reviving interest in traditional Appalachian music during the late 1980s, contributing to the burgeoning Americana movement. The album received critical acclaim for its authenticity, leading to increased visibility for Blake as a solo artist within folk and bluegrass circles. Upon releasing Slow Train Through Georgia in 1987, Norman Blake was already an established figure in the country and bluegrass scenes, known for his work with artists like Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash. This album marked a return to his roots after several years, showcasing his mastery of acoustic guitar and heartfelt songwriting during a time when Americana was gaining more recognition.

Who is Slow Train Through Georgia for?

Slow Train Through Georgia works well if you're into stories that evoke nostalgia, inviting sing-along moments and easy-going afternoon enjoyment.

How many songs are on Slow Train Through Georgia?

Slow Train Through Georgia has 22 tracks, running approximately 70 minutes.

Slow Train Through Georgia

Norman Blake · 1987

70 min · 22 tracks · country music

A vibrant tapestry of bluegrass and folk melodies woven with poignant storytelling and traditional instrumentation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Slow Train Through Georgia — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of nostalgia and longing, featuring intricate guitar work that highlights Blake's skill and emotional depth.
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Church Street Blues — This track stands out due to its reflective lyrics and simple yet profound melody, exemplifying Blake's ability to blend storytelling with musicality.
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Fiddler’s Dram / Whiskey Before Breakfast — Opening with lively instrumentals, this medley showcases Blake's virtuosity on the guitar while paying homage to traditional fiddle tunes.
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Nashville Blues — This song captures the essence of urban life in Nashville through vivid imagery, revealing Blake's keen observational skills within a classic country framework.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

stories that evoke nostalgia
inviting sing-along moments
easy-going afternoon enjoyment
warm acoustic textures throughout
short tracks for quick listens

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy excitement
prefer lengthy immersive albums

Where this album fits

Career context: Upon releasing Slow Train Through Georgia in 1987, Norman Blake was already an established figure in the country and bluegrass scenes, known for his work with artists like Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash. This album marked a return to his roots after several years, showcasing his mastery of acoustic guitar and heartfelt songwriting during a time when Americana was gaining more recognition.
Stylistic neighbors: John Prine· Townes Van Zandt· Guy Clark

Tracklist

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

1 Fiddler’s Dram / Whiskey Before Breakfast 3:34
2 Slow Train Through Georgia 4:09
3 Old Grey Mare 3:32
4 Down Home Summertime Blues 3:43
5 Spanish Fandango 3:50
6 Randall Collins 1:55
7 Church Street Blues 2:55
8 Done Gone 1:39
9 Bully of the Town 2:03
10 Nashville Blues 3:48
11 Ginseng Sullivan 3:32
12 Macon Rag 2:44
13 Nobody’s Business 3:16
14 Streamlined Cannonball 5:00
15 Cattle in the Cane 2:13
16 Little Joe 2:50
17 Weave and Way 2:26
18 Six White Horses 4:59
19 Richland Avenue (Front Porch Wood Pile) Rag 1:58
20 The Banks of Good Hope / The Green Fields of America 5:57
21 Columbus Stockade Blues 3:32
22 Down at Mylow’s House 1:18

What to play next

Listen next

Natasha's Waltz

1987

Go back to

Blake & Rice

1987

Full Norman Blake discography Artists like Norman Blake

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata