What makes The Norman & Nancy Blake Compact Disc by Norman Blake notable?

This album is significant for its celebration of traditional American folk music, showcasing Blake's skillful guitar work and vocal harmonies. It received positive critical reception, further solidifying Blake's influence within the Americana and folk genres, appealing to both long-time fans and new listeners. Released in 1986, The Norman & Nancy Blake Compact Disc marked a notable moment in Norman Blake's career as he continued to establish himself as a prominent figure in American roots music. This album followed his work on the soundtrack for the film O Brother, Where Art Thou? and highlighted his adeptness at blending traditional sounds with contemporary sensibilities.

Who is The Norman & Nancy Blake Compact Disc for?

The Norman & Nancy Blake Compact Disc works well if you're into warm acoustic strings and harmonies, playful melodies for gatherings and short tracks for easy listening.

How many songs are on The Norman & Nancy Blake Compact Disc?

The Norman & Nancy Blake Compact Disc has 21 tracks, running approximately 64 minutes.

Released 40 years ago

The Norman & Nancy Blake Compact Disc

Norman Blake · 1986

64 min · 21 tracks · country music

A collection of traditional folk and country tunes that reverberate with warmth and intricate musicianship.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Hello Stranger — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its gentle melody and rich vocal harmonies that reflect the duo's deep connection to folk traditions.
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Jordan Am a Hard Road to Travel — A standout track that encapsulates the spirit of perseverance with its lively tempo and engaging storytelling through traditional lyrics.
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My Love Is Like a Red, Red Rose — This rendition captures a classic romantic ballad, showcasing Blake’s emotive vocal style and ability to reinterpret familiar material with fresh sincerity.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

warm acoustic strings and harmonies
playful melodies for gatherings
short tracks for easy listening
nostalgic tunes for afternoon sun
joyful energy for light moments

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy dance tracks
prefer lengthy, immersive compositions

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1986, The Norman & Nancy Blake Compact Disc marked a notable moment in Norman Blake's career as he continued to establish himself as a prominent figure in American roots music. This album followed his work on the soundtrack for the film O Brother, Where Art Thou? and highlighted his adeptness at blending traditional sounds with contemporary sensibilities.
Stylistic neighbors: John Prine· Townes Van Zandt· Guy Clark

Tracklist

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

1 Hello Stranger 3:07
2 New Bicycle Hornpipe 2:32
3 Marquis of Huntley 2:30
4 Florida Rag 3:08
5 Jordan Am a Hard Road to Travel 3:59
6 Belize 3:40
7 Elzic's Farewell 4:23
8 Lighthouse on the Shore 5:08
9 Grand Junction 3:05
10 Butterfly Weed 2:54
11 President Garfield's Hornpipe 2:23
12 In Russia (We Have Parking Lots, Too) 2:42
13 Wroxall 2:14
14 If I Lose, I Don't Care 3:01
15 The Chrysanthemum 3:47
16 Lima Road Jig 1:40
17 Boston Boy/Last Night's Joy 2:21
18 My Love Is Like a Red, Red Rose 3:49
19 Peacock's Feather 1:42
20 Wildwood Flower 3:17
21 Tennessee Mountain Fox Chase 2:50

What to play next

Listen next

Blake & Rice

1987

Go back to

Lighthouse on the Shore

1985

Full Norman Blake discography Artists like Norman Blake

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata