Country Songs, Old & New is an album by Country Gentlemen, released in 1990. Country Songs, Old & New includes a.o. the following tracks: â??Roving Gamblerâ?, â??Drifting Too Farâ?, â??Ellen Smithâ?, â??The Long Black Veilâ? and more. The album is a country CD. -
Packaged in a jewel case with a 4-page booklet that includes credits, notes, release information, and tracklist. A folded paper insert was originally included inside the front insert. (As with SF 40022 release also.)
Originally released in 1960 as Folkways FA 2409.
"Country Songs, Old and New" on CD by The Country Gentlemen is a compelling snapshot of bluegrass and country music in transition--rooted in tradition yet open to modern songcraft. The album showcases the band's hallmark blend of tight vocal harmonies, driving banjo, fluid mandolin, warm guitar work, and a solid rhythmic foundation on bass. Classic, story-driven country songs stand alongside more contemporary material, illustrating how the group bridges the gap between old-time sounds and fresh, innovative arrangements. Lyrically, the tracks explore love, loss, rural life, and spiritual themes, all delivered with the emotional intensity and musical precision that have made The Country Gentlemen a milestone in progressive bluegrass. The Country Gentlemen are widely regarded as pioneers of the progressive bluegrass movement. Known for their polished vocal trios, adventurous song choices, and technically accomplished instrumental work, they helped open bluegrass to new audiences by incorporating country, folk, and even popular repertoire into a traditionally minded genre. Over the years, the band's evolving line-ups maintained a consistently high artistic standard, influencing generations of bluegrass and acoustic musicians through their recordings, live performances, and long-term presence on the festival circuit. The CD is released by Smithsonian Folkways, the non-profit record label of the Smithsonian Institution. Smithsonian Folkways is dedicated to preserving and disseminating music, spoken word, and documentary recordings from around the world, with a special focus on folk, traditional, and historically important material. Their releases are known for detailed liner notes, careful remastering where applicable, and a strong educational mission, making this edition of "Country Songs, Old and New" not just a listening experience, but also a curated document of American musical heritage.