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Molly Song of the Week - Claude Jones by Pokey LaFarge and the South City Three

After the recommendation from a dear friend last summer, I first heard the joyous sound of Pokey LaFarge and the South City Three.   

Pokey LaFarge and the South City Three - La La Blues


I thoroughly enjoyed the video, but hadn't found the time to listen to more. At first, I expected it to be more of a gimmick, than a legit band and sound, but my doubts were definitely proven wrong.

Last fall, my wife started teaching a class at Rutgers at 8am during the week.  All the sudden, my wife and daughter went from getting up at 8am to being at school well before 8am.  Needless to say this was a rough transition.  To assist with this transition and waking up my ladies in the morning, YouTube became a valuable tool.  I knew Molly already enjoyed the 'La La Blues', but I was thrilled when we found more videos that she also loved. 'Hard Times Come and Go' is a little dicey as the video shows various methods to end one's life after said hard times, but Molly is too young to even notice. 

Claude Jones, today's subject, is a quality song & video about an opportunist would may risk his family for the almighty dollar. The video itself, is set in an art gallery and shows the range of music talent the band has. Within the video, many solo's are on display,including Pokey LaFarge on a kazoo type instrument. This song really sealed the deal for making this band a keeper, to me. Not only, was the musical talent clearly visible, but Molly started requesting "Claude Jones, Claude Jones."   Really, try watching the video and not be a fan....

Pokey LaFarge and the South City Three - 'Claude Jones' and 'Drinking Whiskey Tonight'


Soon after finding these three videos, I obtained Riverboat Soul, to continue  my St. Louis old-timey experience  The album is pure quality and entertainment the whole way through.  It's certainly a trip back into the old days.

For a deeper listen, check out the NPR podcast featuring the Pokey LaFarge and the South City Three Newport Folk Festival performance.

For more info: pokeylafarge.net

Enjoy!

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