Grandpa Jones - Steppin' Out Kind (2006)

"The first-ever UK CD anthology of King Records' first ever signing. "In his later years, Grandpa Jones was a beloved member of the cast of the Grand Ole Opry and also of US TV's long running country music comedy show Hee Haw. 50 years earlier he and his friend Merle Travis made some of the best down home country music of the 1940s - and the best of it is included on this CD. "Merle Travis' amplified guitar is a highlight of many of the tracks, with some of his solos proving hot enough to be considered a prototype for the following decade's rockabilly. "As well as the Jones/Travis 'duets', "Steppin' Out Kind" also features many cuts which highlight Jones' clawhammer banjo style - including the first version of his massive hit 'Old Rattler'. "Also included are some rare duets with Grandpa's King label mates the Delmore Brothers and Cowboy Copas, none of which have ever been reissued in 'directly from the acetates' sound before now. "Recommended without reservation to anyone with an interest in vintage country music, especially to those who have recently purchased Ace's Delmore Brothers "King Acetates" package. Ace. 2006.