Information/Write-up
Since time immemorial, love has intrigued the artist, the philosopher, the writer and the musician. (This is not to say that they alone are the only people seeking its variable truths. Indeed, everyone is in search.) In most works of art it is the Alpha and the Omega. It has been examined by thousands and it has remained its mystery in tact.
However, Music, even if it has not unearthed the mysterious and elusive core of love, has, in a way, brought us closer to the Quality of it. Music (if one were to look at it as a camera), because of its greater dimension can show the subtle shadows that other forms of life after life in artists and scientists have held dear. For this is what one is left with: to love one and to be loved by one is to know all. That which does not love does not know what it is, but everyone who is, knows what love is.
In accord with the fact that it must be cultivated, pursued, nurtured, developed and even abused, it’s undebated, and above all, true source, will echo and ring.
And nothing that music is the language of love, time and love, and this writer that music is the language of Bonnie Dobson is such an example. Her gift remains the soul of her songs. In this Canada girl we find a true poet. We find one who not only sings with warmth, but also with understanding. To sit with Miss Dobson, is, no doubt, as to be with someone who has not suffered love, but who has had happiness as a result of it.
"Lord Gregory", an Irish song possessing a chantlike melody, speaks of an unfortunate lover who could not right the mother’s wrong doing. He lost his life.
"Country Girl Blues", a version conjured up by folk singer Judy Roderick, is a cry out that "All The World Over My Eyes Do Weep". She is far, far from her lover and so it sings out and flows of a heart grown fonder. The sailor in this song found out how close, how near, a girl may be.
"So Early In The Spring", a traditional one, tells of a man who confesses that there is very little to do other than have a good cry for your heart.
"So Un Canadien Errant", although it is precise, is done like a short sonnet, with an intensity that reminds us that exile has many crowns. There is in one part, a poetic voice.
"Quantanamera", a Cuban song of verified patriotic fervor, is the adaptation of Cuban poet, Jose Marti. It is a beautiful piece. It is one that sings of truth and freedom, and since he wrote of it so well, he could have been no less than one to write like a poet. To just say that he wrote would be to understate.
To folk fans, the name Bonnie Dobson is familiar and her talent well respected. This is a first best document we have of her art in its total sense.
The very season of this record is Autumn. It is the mist of Autumn we know and Summer rain and she is as natural. I am sure that Love has had no sweeter or warmer champion than Bonnie Dobson.
-Bobby Scott
Produced by Bobby Scott
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