Betse Ellis - High Moon Order (2013)

Tracklist

01. The Traveler
02. Golden Road
03. Long Time to Get There
04. Dry and Dusty
05. Straight to Hell
06. Elk River Blues
07. Twilight is Stealing
08. The Complainer
09. When Sorrows Encompass Me 'Round
10. The Collector
11. Stamper
12. Queen of the Earth and Child of the Skies
13. Question to Lay Your Burden Down

High Moon Order evolves from the raw, straightforward approach of Betse s previous solo work to a sound that s uncommonly complex and captivating. While a number of traditional songs and tunes appear on the record imprinted with Betse s own personal style and delivery her sophomore effort consists primarily of original compositions. But what perhaps makes High Moon Order so distinct is its ability to surprise. One moment she wails out gritty words atop a screaming fiddle and drums, the next she quietly confesses over the strum of a tenor guitar. All the pieces fall together beautifully for a record that pushes the boundaries of how folk music can be understood and transformed in the modern age. The album features 13 tracks that demonstrate Betse s incredible musical range, and distinguish her expertise at singing while fiddling at the same time. Including acoustic traditional and original fiddle tunes, new, sonically rich songs featuring full electric band, a couple of fiery punk-infused numbers, and even a rousing cover of The Clash s Straight to Hell, High Moon Order will wow any fan of folk, old-time, Americana and beyond.