Arare and highly listenable compilation about which, in that time-honoured Radioactive tradition,
almost nothing is known.
Recorded at The Garardelli Wine Cellar in San Francisco in 1978, the album, which apears on the
appropriately-named Cabernet Recordings label (GWC101) features 12 different artists and duos
strutting their musical stuff. The vibe is country/folk/blues and the array of acoustic instruments
deployed here with such competence brings a down-home warmth and richness to the sound of this
beautifully-recorded album that only acoustic instruments can.
From the Country Joe sound of Billy Roberts and his acoustic guitar, to Tim Dawe's musings on his
chances of achieving chart success, Live At The Wine Cellar delivers the goods unerringly. Dawe is
undoubtedly the big name here, and as befits his top-of-the-bill status, is encouraged to delight the
audience twice with vocalist and collaborator Patricia Pickens and on one further occasion with his
previously-mentioned solo excursion.
Sandwiched in between are a selection of musical cameos, including a classical guitar piece from Leo
Collignon, a wry homage to FM radio courtesy of John Palme, some lovely guitar picking from Jim
Nels and a display of harmonica virtuosity from Billy Roberts. Canadian folk singer Skip Henderson
delivers a thoughtful rendering of the traditional folk song, The Water Is Wide and singer Dev Singh
moistens the eye with a heart-felt version of Amazing Grace. And then we're back to Tim Dawe, whose
144 Boogies (yes, he does actually manage to sing the word "boogie" 144 times) closes the
proceedings .
All in all, a highly rewarding, entertaining album that sounds absolutely fabulous. Highly recommended. Track Listing:
1. Billy Roberts - Flat Topped Box
2. Billy Roberts - The Grip
3. Leo Collignon - Requerdos de la
Alhambra
4. Tim Dawe & Patricia Pickens -
No More Honey
5. Tim Dawe & Patricia Pickens -
Sad Angels
6. Joey Lent - Wild Windy Weather
7. John Palme - Crusin'
8. Good Morning - Ecstasy
9. Good Morning - Paradise
10. Jim Nels - Pick 'N' Shovel
11. Billy Roberts - This Is A Huarp
12. Wayne Smith - Stolen Love
13. Skip Henderson - The Water Is
Wide
14. Dev Singh - Amazing Grace
15. Tim Dawe - 144 Boogies