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Now here's something unique for the holidays. Fret Not is a four-part harmony, acoustic string band favoring old-time American roots-gospel music. The talented group does not seek commercial success; instead, it often finds its audiences among the poor and oppressed (in prisons and missions, as well as churches and clubs). Fret Not's message is evangelical, and it may make all listeners born-again buyers of "Mary had a Baby."

In essence, this is boot-stompin' bluegrass music. The vocals are fervent and well-crafted; the harmonies are a pleasure. The accompaniment involves a lot of pickin' and fiddlin'. This is a live recording at the Catacombs in San Francisco (December 2002), and the presentation is peppered with audience interaction and applause. The production quality is top-knotch.

The 16 cuts feature some familiar carols ("I Wonder As I Wander", "Wexford Carol"), but most of the tunes are unusual old-time numbers that are new to me--songs with surprising names such as "Furry Day Carol" and "Fountain Filled With Blood." The songs have a stark, rustic quality, but the musicianship is polished. Two songs are instrumentals ("Sussex Carol", "Furry Day Carol"), and "Star In The East" is performed a cappella. Favorite cuts include "Baby Boy," the song Harry Belafonte made famous in his 1961 album "Jump Up Calypso." Fret Not's version does not disappoint.

The substantial liner notes feature impressive graphics, including stark photo reproductions from the 1800s and the Depression Era. Helpful background information is provided for each selection.

This fascinating collection is not for everybody, but "Mary had a Baby" is an undeniably impressive contribution to holiday music. For those wanting to kick back and absorb old-time Americana with a bluegrass gospel flair, Fret Not's holiday CD is your ticket.

--Carol Swanson
(Reviewed in 2004)

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From the liner notes:

Musicians: Greg V. Arthur: mandolin, vocals;
Lori Hester Arthus: guitar, lead vocals;
Max Butler: lead guitar, vocals;
Rich Ferguson: banjo, dobro;
Reed Sutton: bass;
Spiro Tsingaris: fiddle, vocals

Recorded Live at the Catacombs in San Francisco, December 7, 2002

From the web site:

We play old-time American roots-gospel, the traditional church music from the hard days of the Emancipation on through to the Depression. We play anywhere for anyone the Lord Jesus has called us.

Fret Not is a four-part harmony, acoustic string band from Oakland. We play 25 times per year at prisons, missions, churches and clubs around the greater Bay Area. We've been at it since 1994. It is our hope that everyone who hears us will find in the old roots-gospel songs new encouragement to walk on out with Jesus, the only Savior and Lord.

Fret Not Gospel

Mary Had a Baby: Christmas at the Catacombs

Artist site

Track List