Many Country artists (including Emmylou Harris) have cited the Louvin Brothers as an important influence upon their own music, yet their names may not be so familiar to casual Country music fans. Life did imitate art for the Louvin Brothers, as Ira sank into deeper into alcoholism, was shot by his wife & soon after died in a car accident. Their music blends traditional bluegrass song structures with close harmony stylings similar to the Everly Brothers, yet with traditional country melodies. This might be difficult listening if you're not much of a Country fan, as there isn't a great deal of variation within the basic musical ideas. You must dig a bit deeper into the lyrics of these sad "murder ballads" and gospel songs to really understand their appeal to those they influenced. In listening to this, I can't help but think of that Steve Martin skit where he claims it to be impossible to write a sad song to a G chord. "Oh death and murder and weep and sorrow..." That's much of what you'll hear about on this record. Favorite songs: "I'll Be All Smiles Tonight" & "Let Her Go, God Bless Her".
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