Publishers Weekly - Audio
Pete Seeger and percussionist/producer Haynes present one of the most original and inspired audiobooks of the last decade with this collection of stories, songs, music, and musings, straight from the mouth and mind of the legendary folk musician himself. Seeger’s words are blended with a variety of world music in what amounts to an unforgettable and groundbreaking listen. As a narrator, Seeger’s tone is raw, edgy, and, at times, visceral, as he recounts his life and times. Seeger captures listener attention from the very beginning and never lets go. A must-listen for fans. (Apr.)
From the Publisher
"Pete Seeger and percussionist/producer Haynes present one of the most original and inspired audiobooks of the last decade with this collection of stories, songs, music, and musings, straight from the mouth and mind of the legendary folk musician himself. Seeger's words are blended with a variety of world music in what amounts to an unforgettable and groundbreaking listen. As a narrator, Seeger's tone is raw, edgy, and, at times, visceral, as he recounts his life and times. Seeger captures listener attention from the very beginning and never lets go. A must-listen for fans."—Publishers Weekly (starred review)
Library Journal - Audio
★ 09/15/2013
This collection features iconic folk singer and social activist Seeger narrating his own spoken-word selections as set to a wide swath of musical styles including classical, American folk, jazz, New Age, and even Tuvan throat singing. It is a credit to producer and percussionist Jeff Haynes that the efforts of over 40 musicians (including Dar Williams and Richie Stearns) are channeled into roles that uniformly support and highlight Seeger's words throughout. Seeger casually waxes on his travels and the genesis of his poems and songs; his reading is folksy and intimate, projecting all the intelligence and acumen of his remarkable life. VERDICT An especially interesting and lovely experiment, this program deserves to be heard. Despite a possibly narrow range of listeners, this is an appropriate and economical choice for any library, especially safe for large public libraries, music collections, and folk collections.—Douglas C. Lord, Middletown, CT
APRIL 2013 - AudioFile
This marvelous presentation of Pete Seeger’s words and music is a gift to all lovers of folk music, as well as anyone interested in the history of civil protest in America. The program combines Seeger’s captivating stories about his life and times with some of his most famous songs and well-chosen music from other folk traditions. Producer Jeff Haynes has combined the elements with care, incorporating interesting music—from bluegrass to Celtic to African—that enhances without getting in the way of Seeger’s marvelous reminiscences. Those deservedly hold center stage. Be forewarned that listening will make you smile so much that your face will hurt. Listen anyway. You’ll love every moment. A.C.S. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award, 2014 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine
