Various Bärenstark Bear Essentials - 27 Stars Salute Bear Family's 25th Anniversary (CD)

This album is more than just another compilation – it’s a statement. To celebrate the 25th anniversary of Bear Family Records, 27 artists came together to pay tribute to one of the most uncompromising labels in the world. The result is “Bear Essentials”, an album packed with passion, energy, and surprises.

From Ian Whitcomb, who composed the “March Of The Bear Family” especially for this project, to Wanda Jackson & Ted Herold, delivering a unique bilingual version of “Teddy Bear,” to rockabilly icon Ray Campi with his witty “Bear Skin Rug” – every track is a small piece of Bear Family history. Add rising names like Pep Torres, Laura Jo DeWitt, or The Casey Sisters, and you’ll discover how timeless, authentic music carries on with undiminished power.

This album reflects the diversity that has defined Bear Family Records since 1975: Rockabilly, Country, R&B, Blues, Swing – handcrafted music, authentic and uncompromising. Legendary names like Big Jay McNeely and James Talley stand alongside fresh talents who have since become cult figures themselves.

For collectors, “Bear Essentials” is an absolute must. Many of the recordings were made exclusively for this anniversary release and are available nowhere else. Add to that the typical Bear Family touch: carefully produced, curated with love, and delivered with an ear for quality.

In short: If you know Bear Family, you’ll love this CD. If you’re new to the label, this is the perfect introduction.