I have all three of the CDs by the Camptown Shakers and enjoy each. Of course, there are no audio recordings from the midnineteenth century but my impression is that the Camptown Shakers have managed to muster a sound that could pass for the real thing if there was. In addition to listening to their work for my own pleasure I have incorporated it into lectures and presentations for my students on the antebellum era. I recently did a presentation for history teachers taking a summer institute on the period and I included portions of several tracks by the Camptown Shaker. I also included their CDs in the discography I handed out (and added a verbal endorsement of CD Baby.) THANK YOU!!
                            Read more...
                        

                            
The minstrel show began in 1842, as I recall, and lasted till 1900 or so. The early days had a vitality and ruggedness that the later music didn't, and that the traditional mountain stringband (the origin of the stringband has its roots in the minstrel show) often doesn't, either.

Among the better minstrel bands in these days of new popularity of this old style is the Camptown Shakers, a quartet of enthusiasts who keep the original feel entirely out-front. Among the better songs and tunes are "Dandy Jim from Caroline," "Rose of Alabama," "Walk Jawbone," and "Lucy Long." All of these, and the rest, feature the true old-time banjo style (called "stroke" or "thimble" style in the 1850s instructions books for the style) as well as rough-hewn vocals and old-time fiddle playing.

As an old-time banjo player, I'm always happy to find a way to hear what the real old-time banjo style really sounded like. I like this recording a whole lot; it has that rugged vitality that I feel was the real mark of old-time 19th Century music.

Bob Clayton
                            Read more...