The amazing German Bear Family label, which has concentrated on post-war country re-issues, here delves again into the world of Golden Age rural music to present the complete works of this distinctive and popular duo from the deep South. It is the usual beautiful job, with all 71 of the 1927-33 cuts presented in excellent sound, in chronological order, and accompanied by a very attractive 48-page booklet of notes (by Ed Kahn), photos & discography. Tom Darby & Jimmie Tarlton came to the attention of the rural record audience with their 1927-28 hit record, BIRMINGHAM JAIL and COLUMBUS STOCKADE BLUES, featuring Tralton's slide guitar and the duo's bluesy southern singing. They proceeded to record a unique repertoire that included blues, ballads, and sentimental songs. A good sampling of their work is to be heard on COUNTY-3503 (ON THE BANKS OF A LONELY RIVER, $ 13.99): for those who want the whole package, this 3-CD Boxed set is highly recommended. LITTLE BESSIE, MAPLE ON THE HILL, MOONSHINE BLUES, TRAVELING YODEL BLUES, MEXICAN RAG, LONESOME IN THE PINES, NEW YORK HOBO, SLOW WICKED BLUES, CARELESS LOVE, DIXIE MAIL, HARD TIME BLUES, etc.
