American guitarist Marisa Anderson has unveiled her latest album, 'The Anthology of UnAmerican Folk Music', a striking collection that delves into the lesser-known corners of musical history. Released by Thrill Jockey, the project takes inspiration from the monumental work of Harry Smith, the eccentric American collector and ethnomusicologist whose original 'Anthology of American Folk Music' profoundly influenced the folk revival of the mid-20th century.
Anderson's approach, however, offers a distinct and thought-provoking reinterpretation. Instead of focusing solely on American folk traditions, her album consciously excavates tunes from nations that have experienced significant US conflicts. This includes musical traditions from Southeast Asia, the former Soviet Russia, and various parts of the Islamic and Arabic worlds, presenting a global perspective often overlooked in mainstream folk music discourse.
Harry Smith, a figure known for his eclectic interests ranging from anthropology to occultism, amassed a vast collection of 78rpm records during his lifetime. His original anthology, released in 1952, was instrumental in bringing forgotten American blues, country, and folk songs to a new generation. Anderson's work extends this legacy, shining a light on archives that might otherwise remain obscure, and providing a contemporary soundscape to these historical recordings.
The album's title itself, 'The Anthology of UnAmerican Folk Music', is a pointed commentary, suggesting a deliberate move beyond a purely nationalistic view of folk traditions. By reinterpreting these songs, Anderson not only celebrates their inherent beauty but also invites listeners to consider the complex geopolitical histories embedded within their melodies and origins.
For UK audiences, this album offers a unique window into global musical heritage and the often-unseen connections between culture and conflict. While specific streaming availability in the UK for this album would depend on individual platform licensing, it is generally expected to be available on major music streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.