a night at the wine cellar

Arare and highly listenable compilation about which, in that time-honoured Radioactive tradition, almost nothing is known. Recorded at The Garardelli Wine Cellar in San Francisco in 1978, the album, which apears on the appropriately-named Cabernet Recordings label (GWC101) features 12 different artists and duos strutting their musical stuff. The vibe is country/folk/blues and the array of acoustic instruments deployed here with such competence brings a down-home warmth and richness to the sound of this beautifully-recorded album that only acoustic instruments can. From the Country Joe sound of Billy Roberts and his acoustic guitar, to Tim Dawe's musings on his chances of achieving chart success, Live At The Wine Cellar delivers the goods unerringly. Dawe is undoubtedly the big name here, and as befits his top-of-the-bill status, is encouraged to delight the audience twice with vocalist and collaborator Patricia Pickens and on one further occasion with his previously-mentioned solo excursion. Sandwiched in between are a selection of musical cameos, including a classical guitar piece from Leo Collignon, a wry homage to FM radio courtesy of John Palme, some lovely guitar picking from Jim Nels and a display of harmonica virtuosity from Billy Roberts. Canadian folk singer Skip Henderson delivers a thoughtful rendering of the traditional folk song, The Water Is Wide and singer Dev Singh moistens the eye with a heart-felt version of Amazing Grace. And then we're back to Tim Dawe, whose 144 Boogies (yes, he does actually manage to sing the word "boogie" 144 times) closes the proceedings . All in all, a highly rewarding, entertaining album that sounds absolutely fabulous. Highly recommended.
Track Listing:
1. Billy Roberts - Flat Topped Box 2. Billy Roberts - The Grip 3. Leo Collignon - Requerdos de la Alhambra 4. Tim Dawe & Patricia Pickens - No More Honey 5. Tim Dawe & Patricia Pickens - Sad Angels 6. Joey Lent - Wild Windy Weather 7. John Palme - Crusin' 8. Good Morning - Ecstasy 9. Good Morning - Paradise 10. Jim Nels - Pick 'N' Shovel 11. Billy Roberts - This Is A Huarp 12. Wayne Smith - Stolen Love 13. Skip Henderson - The Water Is Wide 14. Dev Singh - Amazing Grace 15. Tim Dawe - 144 Boogies