MIAMI, FL. (Slipstream Productions/ www.balladofamerica.com) - Slipstream Productions, Inc. announces the June 28th release of "Ballad of
America Volume 1: Over a Wide and Fruitful Land," a new CD by singer/songwriter Matthew Sabatella. Over the course of 18 revealing traditional folk song interpretations, the story of the United States dramatically unfolds.
The journey on the CD begins in the latter part of the eighteenth century when the United States was first recognized as an independent nation. It follows the paths of the pioneers, sailors, lumberjacks, immigrants, '49ers, farmers, slaves, soldiers, cowboys, and railroaders who moved the country across the continent and into the twentieth century.
The all-acoustic "Ballad of America Volume 1" features Sabatella's vocals and guitar with a host of musical guests who make contributions on instruments such as banjo, fiddle, concertina, resonator guitar, bodhran, harmonica, mandolin, and double bass. But the focal point of the album is the nineteenth century songs, which Sabatella's mesmerizing baritone voice infuses with an immediacy and intimacy that belies their age.
Historical notes are included in the accompanying twelve-page booklet. The notes create a narrative detailing the relevant events in American history that inspired the songs. All of the songs are traditional and have been shaped by every voice that has transmitted them from one generation to the next. Selections range from the familiar "Shenandoah" and "Streets of Laredo" to titles otherwise relegat ed to the pages of history books "The Wisconsin Emigrant" and "Southern Soldier."
"Ballad of America Volume 1" is Sabatella's first nationally distributed CD release. The South Florida-based recording artist has two critically acclaimed independent releases and an extensive resume as both a performer and an educator.
Resources are in development to provide additional tools for educators from elementary school through college to use traditional folk music in the teaching of American history. Songs such as these help people understand the past, empathize with the plight of others, and experience the perspectives, hardships and joys of their ancestors.
Future volumes of "Ballad of America" will focus on different time periods, events, and topics. The website BalladofAmerica.com (https://www.BalladofAmerica.com) features audio, lyrics, notes, reviews, performance dates, CD ordering, and more.
"Ballad of America Volume 1: Over a Wide and Fruitful Land" will be available in stores and through online retailers on June 28, 2005.
