Folkways Records: Moses Asch and His Encyclopedia of Sound : Book Review

"Folkways Records: Moses Asch and His Encyclopedia of Sound" by Tony Olmstead is an incredibly captivating exploration into the life and lasting impact of Moses Asch, the visionary behind the influential Folkways Records label. Through a combination of historical research, interviews, and personal anecdotes, Olmstead creates a comprehensive and engaging portrait of Asch and his groundbreaking contributions to the folk music industry.

The book delves deep into Asch's early years, revealing his unwavering passion for collecting and preserving traditional music from across the globe. It showcases his tireless commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive archive of sound, shedding light on the cultural significance of his work. Olmstead expertly examines how Asch's dedication to ethnic diversity, political activism, and social justice shaped the very ethos of Folkways Records, elevating it to a unique and essential cultural institution.

Olmstead's writing truly shines when he brings to life the personalities of the artists and musicians who collaborated with Folkways Records. Through interviews and anecdotes, he provides a vivid and intimate portrayal of legendary figures such as Woody Guthrie, Lead Belly, and Pete Seeger. This not only offers valuable insights into their creative processes, but also illuminates their relationships with Asch and the profound impact they had on the label.

One of the book's major strengths is its exploration of the challenges faced by Folkways Records in an ever-evolving industry. Olmstead carefully examines how Asch navigated the emergence of commercialism in the music business, highlighting his ability to maintain the integrity of Folkways Records while simultaneously striving to reach a wider audience.

In conclusion, "Folkways Records: Moses Asch and His Encyclopedia of Sound" is a meticulously researched and engrossing account of Moses Asch's life and the profound influence of Folkways Records. Olmstead's writing is informative, insightful, and passionate, making this book an essential read for music enthusiasts, historians, and those fascinated by the intersection of art, culture, and social activism.

What are readers saying?

"Folkways Records" by Tony Olmstead has received a range of reviews from readers, who appreciate the book's comprehensive information and historical value. This book explores the unique folk music recordings produced by Folkways Records, and reviewers commend its in-depth coverage of the label's catalog. The extensive information about the artists, recordings, and the stories behind them is highly valued, as well as Olmstead's meticulous research and attention to detail. Readers find that the book not only provides valuable information but also evokes nostalgia and captures the spirit of the era, with its engaging writing style and use of primary sources.

One aspect that readers particularly appreciate is the manner in which Olmstead presents complex information in an accessible way. The book strikes a good balance between providing historical context and maintaining the reader's interest throughout. Even those who are new to the subject of folk music find the writing style engaging and easy to understand. Olmstead's storytelling and inclusion of interviews and firsthand accounts contribute to creating a vivid picture of the folk music scene, transporting readers back in time.

However, a few reviewers mention that the book's extensive content can be overwhelming. Some feel that the sheer amount of information presented can be challenging to digest in one sitting. It is suggested that readers approach "Folkways Records" at a pace that allows for reflection and further exploration of the artists and recordings mentioned.

In conclusion, "Folkways Records" by Tony Olmstead is highly regarded for its comprehensive coverage of the Folkways Records catalog and its ability to provide historical and cultural context. The book's engaging writing style and use of primary sources contribute to its appeal, as it captures the spirit of the era and evokes nostalgia. Although the extensive content may be overwhelming for some readers, this book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history and significance of folk music.