These two collections present a cross section of white and black Southern string duets and bands performing upbeat dances and songs from "the golden era" of old time music. The cuts are chosen according to the expert whim of Yazoo owner Richard Nevins, apparently with an eye toward rarities.

The accent is on fiddling with cuts by some of the oldest fiddlers to record (like Jimmy Thompson and Joe Brown), possibly representing old old-time (sic) playing. Many of the these come with square dance calls, which can be off-putting to someone trying to learn the tunes.

In addition there is an interesting group of pieces from the non-blues Afro-American tradition, again portraying archaic genres (many with excellent fiddling). Among the latter are Cannon's Jug Stompers, Peg Leg Howell and Hambone Willie Newbern (doing a great "Way Down in Arkansas").

Remastering of the old 78`s and the accompanying notes are up to Yazoo's high standards. A generous 23 cuts per CD make these albums a bargain. - Stacy Phillips