The Asch Recordings, Vol. 1-4

Most listeners approaching Guthrie for the first time from more than a casual perspective will likely debate purchasing the Asch recordings or the Lomax archive recordings, a three-CD set. Both offerings are superb in their own right. The Lomax set contains some insightful banter between Lomax and Guthrie which gives you a good feel for the nature of the man and provides excellent context for the music.

This set, however, covers more groud musically. And while the production quality of virtually all of Guthrie's work is lacking by today's standards, this set is arguably superior to others.

If you are going to buy a Guthrie set (an indespensible part of any collection of American music) this is the best on the block.

Woody Guthrie is not only one the greatest American songwriters ever, but one of the most influential. His simple, yet emotionally complex songs have touched almost every facet of American Music, from the protest songs of the 1960's, to country music. This is by far the best way to become familiar with Woody because it covers so much. Which is also its only problem: there is so much music (near 30 songs on each of the four CDs at almost 75 minutes a piece), it can be tough listening. But that is only a minor quibble because it is far better to feel overwhelmed by Woody's genius than feel cheated. The sound quality is almost flawless, and the liner notes are amazing reading explaining each song in detail (which is great when the songs are about historical events that most listeners will not be familiar with). Anyone serious about American music or history (Woody's songs are more informative, and more pleasant than most history books) should buy this set immediately.

This collection is definitely a must have for persons who love Woody Guthrie's music. Folk hounds in general will appreciate this collection. These CDs cover a wide range of Guthrie's music. Many of his signature songs are included with some of his lesser known tunes.

Guthrie, famous for the "three chord theory," plays human experience and emotions like a virtuoso. He ranges in all feelings from the lighthearted, almost silly "Car Song" to the sad, serious "Deportee" and "Reuben James."

The sound quality on these CDs is of extremely high caliber like the music. Woody Guthrie has raised the bar; he set new standards in folk music. If you're a folk hound like me, you will LOVE this collection.