Doc & Merle Watson Songs Doc Didn't Sing (CD)

(FLI Records) 15 tracks (38:49) originally released on Flying Fish Records 1981-1985. Digisleeve

A superb set of instrumental tunes from Doc Watson, the man who forever changed the way guitar is played, and his sterling sidekick, son Merle Watson. Doc was a legendary performer who blended his traditional Appalachian musical roots with bluegrass, country, gospel and blues to create a unique style and an expansive repertoire. Doc tears through fiddle tunes like "Down Yonder," "Sheeps in the Meadow" and his signature "Black Mountain Rag." Merle leans more towards blues, and his slide playing is superb on the likes of "John Henry" and "Talking to Casey." The duo also touches base with swing ("Liza / Lady Be Good"), polka ("Guitar Polka") and take an unlikely romp through "Take Me Out to the Ballgame."

As President Bill Clinton said, in awarding the National Medal of Arts, "There may not be a serious, committed baby boomer alive who didn't at some point in his or her youth spend a few minutes at least trying to learn to pick a guitar like Doc Watson." Doc & Merle were at the height of their powers in the early 1980s, when these were first recorded. About half of Doc's 7 Grammys, including his Grammy for Lifetime Achievement, were in his future. But soon after these recordings, Merle's future was tragically cut short in a fatal tractor accident. Songs Doc Didn't Sing is essential listening for guitarists and aspiring guitarists of all persuasions.