The Folk Den 4 CD set

[jdogric12]

So I bought this when it came out and was severely disappointed. The other day I started listening to it exclusively whilst driving, and absolutely love it!!! I usually skip the "old" recordings and Christmas songs, but love the rest of it. It's also interesting to hear how he's improved from 1995 to 2005. Any others' impressions?

[janglebox]

So I bought this when it came out and was severely disappointed. The other day I started listening to it exclusively whilst driving, and absolutely love it!!! I usually skip the "old" recordings and Christmas songs, but love the rest of it. It's also interesting to hear how he's improved from 1995 to 2005. Any others' impressions?

J Dog, I agree, except that I actually loved this CD when it first came out, including the Christmas stuff, lol! No, I don't race to hear "On Top of Old Smokey", but the vast majority of the music is absolutely terrific. When Roger adds some curveball Ric-12 licks to the mix, it sounds even more fantastic.

What I find most interesting is how you can see McGuinn's expanded concept of "folk rock" so much more clearly on this collection than even on "Preflyte", when he was moving from folk to rock.

I would trace the improvement to Roger's voice all the way back to the 80s when he started gigging solo exclusively. His range improved dramatically during that time, imo. And you're right about the noticeable improvement in his guitar playing since the 90s. He continually adds new licks and subtle technique variations to his acoustic repertoire.

For example, although Roger has never characterized himself as a bluegrass picker, this video at a promotional appearance he did in Japan for Martin Guitars is most impressive. While it won't make anyone forget Clarence White's version of Black Mountain Rag, it's still pretty amazing how Roger's constantly developing his skills.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9jNA9BsRYWE

[jdogric12]

Cool, thanks Steve! Sorry I just saw your reply.