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The Stanley Brothers - The Stanley Brothers On WCYB Bristol

(Rebel REB-855) 1988

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This album contains two radio shows from 1947, which The Stanley Brothers had recorded onto 16" transcription discs at WCYB. Originally intended for occasions when they could not make their regular noon "Farm & Fun Time" radio show, this is the first time in over 40 years that the recordings had resurfaced, giving fans a rare glimpse into their very early days.

At the time the Stanley's made the discs, they had barely begun their careers, and the sound is quite embryonic. Ralph, for instance, picks 2-finger style banjo, as he'd yet to create his own version of 3-finger 'Stanley style'. Likewise, although Carter is evidently very comfortable in his role as emcee, he'd yet to blossom as a songwriter, and only three tracks are originals.

Most of the material is drawn from Bill Monroe/Monroe Brothers or old-time favourites and hymns. It's interesting to hear the slightly mangled lyrics to tunes they'd presumably learnt from listing to the Opry, and also fascinating to hear Pee Wee Lambert in Monroe-mode and the legendary old-time fiddler Leslie Keith, tearing it up on the fiddle tunes.

More material from WCYB transciption discs, including The Stanley Brothers, Flatt & Scruggs; Mac Wiseman; Carl & J.P. Sauceman; and Curly King also appeared on the V/A - Live Again! WCYB Bristol Farm & Fun Time LP in 1988. Both albums were later reissued in 1997 on a 2xCD set, with the same title... V/A - Live Again! WCYB Bristol Farm & Fun Time.

Liner notes to the album are by Jack Tottle.

• Carter Stanley: guitar, vocal
• Ralph Stanley: banjo, vocal
• Leslie Keith: fiddle
• Pee Wee Lambert: mandolin
• Ray Lambert: bass

For more detailed breakdown and background to these recordings, check Gary B. Reid's The Music Of The Stanley Brothers book, pages 10-13 and 17-18.