March Old Time Jam

      Here are some sample recordings from the last old time jam at my house (hidden below the fold because the music plays automatically and I didn't want to get anybody in trouble at work).  The recordings can sound a little rough at some parts, but that's part of the essence of old time music.  I need to get better at recording, but I had fun with this side project anyway. While listening to the recording to separate the tracks, I noticed that there was a lot of laughter.  So even if we don't sound like a professional band (which we are not), we all had a lot of fun.  A little homemade mead, a few instruments and some friends makes for a great time.  I also realize that lately mosts of my posts have been about the banjo.  I don't think this is a bad thing, but I'll post about some other topics eventually.

Banjo Special - Prairie Home Companion

Photo from A Prairie Home Companion's photo archives.  

      Prairie Home Companion did a special on banjos last weekend.  If you haven't heard it, check it out.  Banjos appear on the show pretty frequently, but this whole episode was dedicated to this quintessential American instrument.  If you don't want to listen to the whole show, I have posted some highlights.

Here is a parody of a catchy tune called "The Fox."  It makes me think of Fantastic Mr. Fox and includes clawhammer and three-finger style banjo.

Here is an old song called "Down the Road," played in clawhammer style.

This is an awesome version of one of my favorites, "Soldier's Joy."  It definitely puts my version to shame.