More for banjophiles

Gourd and minstrel banjos made by Jay Moschella

Tom Hanway reports:

For banjophiles (banjo-lovers) here are some general banjo websites that are listed on the free Open Directory Project (ODP). These are general information directories, listing various bluegrass, old-time and minstrel banjo sites, among others:

(banjo)
(bands and artists)
(banjo makers)

One fascinating site, which came to my attention a few days ago, has history about minstrelsy and the 19th-century gourd banjo, with some historically faithful recordings here: just hit the link that says 'Listen' and take your pick of some really fine minstrel (upstroke) banjo picking.

Fans of Bill Keith (melodic banjo) may want to take note of the melodic minstrel version of 'Devil's dream'. Interestingly, 'Barley reel' is an older version of 'Off to California', at least to my ears, and 'Congo prince' would make a lovely duet with 'Cripple Creek', which seems almost a variant of it.

I hope banjo aficionados will take some time to explore these fascinating links. Enjoy and happy pickin'!

BIB editor's note: Thanks, Tom; anyone who likes the minstrel banjo sound should also visit David G. Hyatt's gourd banjo website, where some very sweet MP3s can be downloaded from here. And don't miss the video by Frank Lee of the Freight Hoppers.