Jack Hardy Southern Comfort (CD)

(New Shot Records) 16 tracks

Jack Hardy was a songwriter for songwriters, the most influential figure of the fast-folk era in New York City. He left an indelible mark with his solo productions, in addition to his work as a promoter of the folk scene and discoverer of talent, until his untimely death in 2011—at the age of 63, after succumbing to lung cancer. He was an extremely important figure who wrote an impressive number of outstanding songs. Lucinda Williams, who knows a thing or two about great songs, expressed her love for Hardy when she said, “Jack wrote some of the most beautiful songs I've ever heard.” And who could disagree with Lucinda! “Southern Comfort” was recorded in 1988 in Cosenza – in the deep south of Italy, a place Jack described as “a piece of paradise,” hence the title. The outstanding accompaniment of Todd Scheaffer on guitar and Brady Rymer on bass (both also on backing vocals), as well as Jack himself in top form, make this performance one of the absolute best of his 40-year touring career. Such is the energy, conviction, and almost transcendental artistic gesture. One of Jack Hardy's closest friends has described this performance as a must-see. So be it!