Martin Carthy has a birthday today.

[Dyedinthewoolliberal]

[AZSkiffyGeek]

1. Carthy is a treasure

Was lucky to have dinner with him about 35 years ago when he played in Phoenix w/ Dave Swarbrick. Sweet gentleman.

[yonder]

2. You ARE a lucky person and he is an absolute treasure.

He is a human encyclopedia of English folk ballads and melodies plus a fantastic musician with one the most unique and identifiable guitar styles around, not to mention his unmistakable voice.

I've followed him since the early Steeleye Span days and once had a chance to see him play at the old Denver Folklore Center about 42 years ago but I was starting a new job that very evening. 'What to do?' I missed the concert, went to work and to this day, regret it.

Happy birthday Mr. Carthy

[AZSkiffyGeek]

3. His daughter Eliza is also incredible

So much raw talent in that family - his wife Norma's amazing as well, although I don't think she's going to be around much longer, sounds like her health is declining pretty rapidly.

And they're all tireless fighters for social justice.

[Midnight Writer]

5. I love Eliza. Her voice is so rich and her performances come straight from her heart.

[yonder]

6. Yes, the Watersons, his daughter - so much talent.

Sorry to hear about his wife's health. We're all blessed to live in the same era as they.

[AZSkiffyGeek]

7. Norma's solo album from the 90s was great

Martin, Eliza, Richard Thompson and Danny Thompson for her band.
Wonderful cover of "Black Muddy River" that surpasses the Dead for me.

[yonder]

8. Oh now you did it - brought up Richard Thompson did you?

I'll try and find that album/cd. I stopped in our local indie record store and found two used, more recent Martin Carthy albums that I don't have and am unfamiliar with, one was from 1988. $4.99 each. Didn't have the time to check out but will be back tomorrow and snag them.

[AZSkiffyGeek]

9. The recent ones of Carthy's that I know are good

Rite of Passage is probably that 88 one.

[AZSkiffyGeek]

4. My favorite version...

Martin, Eliza, Billy Bragg and more...

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