Jig At a Why? Gig Live '96

Album Review

Jig at a Why? Gig is essentially a live version of Giggle, as it includes eight songs from that 1995 release. Recorded in January of 1996, the album has Why? again employing the services of a new fiddle player, simply known as Jane. She injects more energy into these songs, and is arguably the biggest factor contributing to the success of the live shows from which these tracks were derived. To the credit of the compilers of this record, they chose perhaps the best and most exciting tracks from Giggle. Four previously unreleased songs are also included, preventing undue predictability — among them are the gospel standard "Good for My Old Mother" and Woody Guthrie's "Jesus Christ." This live set offers a side of Why? not heard on studio albums. The medium-tempo songs have increased in speed, while the uptempo selections have in some cases morphed into rakish, acoustic folk-punk. Jig at a Why? Gig is an excellent introduction to this obscure, underappreciated English band. Fans of Oysterband, the Saw Doctors, and James will likely appreciate this band.