Album Notes

This progressive CD features six original songs, two original instrumentals, four traditional pieces, plus a bonus track from their 1992 cassette release, "A Long Time From Home."

". . . a capable, boisterous mix of electric, neo-folk." - Pat O'Connor , Missouri Folklore Society.

"With this release, Uncle Dirtytoes shows that you can play within the tradition and still sound fresh." - Jim Lee, Dirty Linen.

"Foot to the Path . . . is impressive in its performance, production and presentation." - Shane Dolbier, PitchWeekly.

"An Album of grace and subtlety, with fiery playing and lyrics full of Albion soul, Foot to the Path is one of the few albums where the
original songs are as good as the traditional ones." - Barry Lee, KKFI radio.

Uncle Dirtytoes has an extensive musical repertoire consisting mainly of originals which are complemented by a mixture of traditional and contemporary cover songs. The originals vary widely in style and flavor with songs that are evocative of other times and places, as well as portrayals of life here and now.

The band derives its inspiration from songwriter Maria Anthony and such seminal folk-rock artists as Fairport Convention, Steeleye Span, Jethro Tull, and Richard Thompson, and covers songs by these performers as well as artists such as Bob Dylan, The Waterboys, Jefferson Airplane, the Beatles, and others.

The core of Uncle Dirtytoes, Maria Anthony (lead and backing vocals, acoustic guitar, flute) and Megan Hurt (viloin, backing vocals), have been playing together in various musical arrangements since 1988, and as Uncle Dirtytoes since 1991.

Veteran guitarist Roger Holden (electric guitar) has been with the band since 1993, Mark von Schlemmer joined on bass in 1995 and Mike Fitzgerald began drumming with the 'Toes in 1996. Drummer Jim Mechler played on the album "Foot to the Path" before heading off to complete his law degree. Guest musicians Clark Jamison (hand percussion), Joe Root (keyboards and accordion) and Darrell Lea (backing vocals) joined us in the recording studio.