Track Premiere: The Seldom Scene “Farewell Angelina”

Photo: Jeromie Stephens

Few are the bands that can continue for 53 years without the occasional change in the line-up and The Seldom Scene have taken that tendency to change to the fullest conclusion – although there are members who are decades into their tenure with the band there are no original members left playing in the band.  Bassist Ronnie Simpkins reflects on this fact by saying: “I’ve been asked a time or two, ‘Have you thought about the next generation, who to pass it on to?  I’m not sure. A couple of weeks ago, we got a call from a promoter regarding future bookings at his festival. It was reassuring to hear him say, ‘You don’t have to worry, The Seldom Scene is an institution.’ It’s great to hear that we’re looked on in that way. When The Seldom Scene first came out in ’71, I was moved by their approach to bluegrass. They opened doors to so many new bands that were starting out and kind of patterned themselves after that. It would be a great thing for
that to continue. I hope it does

The latest – and 24th – album from The Seldom Scene is ‘Remains To Be Scene‘ which features further evidence of this fluid changing over time approach to the band, as it represents the final recordings of guitarist Dudley Connell who said of his departure: “Twenty nine years, dude, that’s a long, long time.  No regrets, I’ve loved every minute of it, and it’s been a real joy working with these guys for so long. But I want to get out while I still have my mobility and can travel, walk my dog, things like that.”   The album also feature sleeve notes by founding member Ben Eldridge, who passed on in April last year.

Remains To Be Scene‘ is out on March 14th via Smithsonian Folkways and features eleven songs from such diverse sources as The Kinks, Jim Croce and two from the evergreen Bob Dylan who wrote ‘Farewell, Angelina‘ in 1964, although it was Joan Baez that had the most success with it.  Ronnie Simpkins told Americana UK that: “This song, written in 1964, is another gem by Bob Dylan. Our arrangement is based off John Mellencamp’s version; and in addition to the fiddle, Ron’s talent on guitar is showcased. I must credit my daughter, Megan, for insisting we record this one. I’m glad we listened.”

About Jonathan Aird 2947 Articles
Sure, I could climb high in a tree, or go to Skye on my holiday. I could be happy. All I really want is the excitement of first hearing The Byrds, the amazement of decades of Dylan's music, or the thrill of seeing a band like The Long Ryders live. That's not much to ask, is it?
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