What does The Rambling Boys sound like?

A richly textured blend of traditional folk and country storytelling, echoing the spirit of American roots music. Rooted in country and traditional folk music. Start with "Rich and Rambling Boys".

Is The Rambling Boys a good place to start with Ramblin' Jack Elliott?

Yes, The Rambling Boys is recommended as a starting point for new Ramblin' Jack Elliott listeners. A richly textured blend of traditional folk and country storytelling, echoing the spirit of American roots music. Released in 1957, The Rambling Boys was Ramblin' Jack Elliott's second album, following his debut, Jack Elliott Sings. At this point in his career, he had begun to establish himself as a prominent figure in the American folk revival, drawing from influences like Woody Guthrie and deeply rooted in the oral traditions of American music.

Who is The Rambling Boys for?

The Rambling Boys works well if you're into steady narrative flow throughout, heartfelt storytelling with charm and short tracks for quick enjoyment.

How many songs are on The Rambling Boys?

The Rambling Boys has 12 tracks, running approximately 34 minutes.

The Rambling Boys

Ramblin' Jack Elliott · 1957

34 min · 12 tracks · country music

A richly textured blend of traditional folk and country storytelling, echoing the spirit of American roots music.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Rich and Rambling Boys Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Buffalo Skinners — This track exemplifies Elliott's storytelling prowess, bringing a classic folk tale to life with vivid imagery and emotional depth.
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It's Hard, Ain't It Hard — The song’s poignant reflections on hardship resonate through its simple yet profound lyrics, capturing the struggles of everyday life with sincerity.
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The Death of Mr. Garfield — This track combines narrative and historical context, detailing a significant event while illustrating Elliott's ability to weave storytelling into music.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady narrative flow throughout
heartfelt storytelling with charm
short tracks for quick enjoyment
evocative tales of rural life

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced listening experiences
seek modern production techniques

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1957, The Rambling Boys was Ramblin' Jack Elliott's second album, following his debut, Jack Elliott Sings. At this point in his career, he had begun to establish himself as a prominent figure in the American folk revival, drawing from influences like Woody Guthrie and deeply rooted in the oral traditions of American music.
Stylistic neighbors: Woody Guthrie· Pete Seeger· John Prine

New to Ramblin' Jack Elliott? Find your way in →

Tracklist

1 Rich and Rambling Boys Start here 2:48
2 Buffalo Skinners 4:38
3 I Wish I Was a Rock 1:10
4 It's Hard, Ain't It Hard 3:24
5 All Around the Water Tank 2:00
6 Mother's Not Dead 2:05
7 East Virginia Blues 2:41
8 The Old Bachelor 2:28
9 Danville Girl 2:54
10 The State of Arkansas 3:28
11 The Death of Mr. Garfield 4:34
12 Roll On Buddy 2:01

What to play next

Listen next

Jack Takes the Floor

1958

Go back to

Jack Elliot Sings

1957

Full Ramblin' Jack Elliott discography Where to start with Ramblin' Jack Elliott Artists like Ramblin' Jack Elliott

traditional folk music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata