Rambling Boy (Bonus Track Version)

iTunes Review

Charlie Haden might possess the warmest bass tone in jazz, one that has made its presence felt on countless recordings, including several jazz landmarks. He’s probably best known for his work with the visionary Ornette Coleman, but he’s also led a variety of groups, including the Liberation Music Orchestra, Old and New Dreams, and Quartet West. Haden, who hails from Iowa, began his musical career as a child singing with his family’s country and folk act. His playing has retained a folk-like quality, and on Rambling Boy he returns to his roots. This expansive disc opens with Haden’s three daughters — Petra, Tanya, and Rachel — nicely harmonizing on the Carter Family classic, “Single Girl, Married Girl,” as Charlie plucks away on bass. In addition to Haden’s family, the album features country singers Vince Gill and Roseanne Cash, as well as bluegrass artists such as vocalist Ricky Skaggs, mandolin player Sam Bush, and dobro master Jerry Douglas. (Elvis Costello and Pat Metheny also make appearances.) Two of the last tracks make a good pair: an excerpt from an old radio show featuring a two-year-old Charlie yodeling, followed by the present-day Haden intoning “Oh Shenandoah.”