Derroll Adams - Feelin’ Fine

The Guardian 60

(Ghosts from the Basement)

Derroll Adams, who died in 2000, was an American banjo-player, singer and song-writer, and one of the most colourful figures on the folk scene. He travelled across the US, met everyone from Woody Guthrie to James Dean, and worked as a duo with the legendary Ramblin’ Jack Elliott. After they toured together in the UK, Adams stayed on here to be treated as a hero in the folk clubs, and famously introduced Donovan to Dylan. These recordings from the 70s, released on CD for the first time, show Adams at his very best. His instrumental work includes a rapid-fire treatment of Muleskinner Blues, while his voice is deep and delightfully laid-back. The songs range from the traditional Darling Corey and Wildwood Flower – both helped by backing from the still-excellent British guitar hero Wizz Jones – to his own thoughtful, autobiographical compositions such as The Sky. A welcome reissue.