Nativity: Sholem Asch's Story of the Birth of Jesus

by Pete Seeger

Overview

Moses Asch, the head of Folkways Records, is the son of the Yiddish writer Sholem Asch, and Pete Seeger is Folkways' flagship artist. That may help explain the existence of this record, on which Seeger recites Sholem Asch's account of the birth of Jesus Christ. Asch weaves an elaborate tale about Mary and Joseph's arrival in Bethlehem and Joseph's requests of several prominent figures -- "The Magistrate," "The Wealthy Man," "The Benefactor," and "The Teacher" -- for a place to stay for his wife, who is "big with child." All refuse him, and the family ends up in a manger, only to draw the attention of wise men and kings who reprove the city fathers for their neglect. Asch writes in a semi-biblical style using archaic language, as if to provide one more gospel for the New Testament. Seeger reads well, expressively intoning the words of the various characters. He supplements the story with half a dozen appropriate Christmas carols and spirituals touching upon the same story of Christ's birth, making this a good Christmas recording for the holidays. ~ William Ruhlmann

Product Details

Release Date:	12/08/2017
Label:	Gonzo Distribution Ltd. / Greyscale
UPC:	5056083201563
Rank:	209588

Tracks

1. The Journey to Bethlehem
2. The Magistrate
3. The Wealthy Man
4. The Benefactor
5. The Teacher
6. The Shepherds
7. The Manger
8. The Three Wise Men
9. Peace on Earth
10. Behold That Star
11. How the Roses Are Blooming
12. Mary, What Are You Going to Name That Pretty Little Baby
13. Rise up Shepard and Follow
14. Christ Is Born
15. The First Noel
16. Carol of the Beasts

Album Credits

Performance Credits

Pete Seeger   Primary Artist,Vocals,Banjo,Guitar