William Elliott Whitmore - The Death Valley Sessions (2003)

Readers beware, this post was stolen from a favorite blog of mine. Legitimate posts huh? Well, being the Whitmore superfan that I am, I had to post this gem. This session was done shortly before his first record, Ashes to Dust, hence most the songs being rather familiar. While living for a brief period in time San Fransisco Whitmore was approached by a friend who wanted him to record some of his sparse folk music on his random plot of land in Death Valley. What became of the session is an introduction to Whitmore's prose, combined with the rustlings and whisperings of the valley. At times the session is as erie as it is cathartic. It is also strange to think of his music outside of the context of Iowa. I have a strong belief that a person's landscape vastly influences their work in whatever medium, and Whitmore is exemplary of this, with his strong association with the Midwest and Iowa. Anyway, go make some moonshine in a tub.

Note: After a little research sparked by this session, it seems there are several sessions out there Whitmore has done throughout his troubadour tenure. If, and when, I find some more, I shall let you know.

Tracks:

1. Introduction
2. Instrumental
3. Does Me No Good
4. Pine Box
5. Lord Only Knows
6. Old Lady Duet
7. From the Cell Door to the Gallows
8. Diggin' My Grave
9. Lift My Jug
10. Old Lady Duet 2
11. Our Paths Will Cross Again
12. Instrumental 2

My road to Hell is surely paved.
(Link borrowed from Heavybootsmusic.tumblr)