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A Folk Music Dynasty: The McGarrigle Family Album, an Intimate Portrait

Jimmy Butler

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Published in Mountain City Girls: The McGarrigle Family Album

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Mountain City Girls: The McGarrigle Family Album

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9285 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
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Print length	:	475 pages

In the annals of folk music, few families have left as enduring a legacy as the McGarrigles. Hailing from Montreal, Canada, the McGarrigle sisters, Kate and Anna, first emerged on the scene in the 1970s, captivating audiences with their ethereal harmonies and poignant songwriting. Their music, a blend of traditional folk, jazz, and pop influences, has influenced generations of musicians and continues to resonate with audiences today.

The McGarrigle Family Album, released in 1998, is an intimate portrait of this remarkable family. The album features a collection of songs written and performed by Kate, Anna, and their children, Rufus and Martha Wainwright. It is a testament to the McGarrigles' musical brilliance, their close familial bonds, and the enduring power of their music.

Kate and Anna McGarrigle

Kate and Anna McGarrigle were born into a musical family in Montreal in the 1940s. Their father was a classical violinist, and their mother was a singer. From a young age, the sisters were immersed in music, singing and playing together for their family and friends.

In the early 1970s, Kate and Anna began performing together professionally. They quickly gained a following for their beautiful harmonies and their ability to write songs that were both personal and universal. Their debut album, Kate & Anna McGarrigle, was released in 1975 and was met with critical acclaim. The album featured the hit single "Heart Like a Wheel," which became a folk classic.

Over the next two decades, Kate and Anna released a series of critically acclaimed albums, including "Dancer with Bruised Knees" (1977),"Pronto Monto" (1978),and "Entre la jeunesse et la sagesse" (1980). They also collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Emmylou Harris, Linda Ronstadt, and the Chieftains.

Rufus and Martha Wainwright

Kate and Anna McGarrigle's musical legacy was continued by their children, Rufus and Martha Wainwright. Rufus, born in 1973, is a singer-songwriter known for his theatrical flair and his eclectic musical style. Martha, born in 1976, is also a singer-songwriter, known for her beautiful voice and her personal and introspective lyrics.

Both Rufus and Martha have released successful solo albums and have collaborated with a wide range of artists. Rufus has worked with artists such as David Byrne, Elton John, and Boy George. Martha has collaborated with artists such as Joan Baez, Teddy Thompson, and her brother Rufus.

The McGarrigle Family Album

The McGarrigle Family Album was released in 1998 and features songs written and performed by Kate, Anna, Rufus, and Martha. The album is a beautiful and intimate portrait of the family, showcasing their musical brilliance and their close familial bonds.

The album opens with "The Angel Gabriel," a traditional folk song that Kate and Anna sing in a haunting and ethereal harmony. The song sets the tone for the rest of the album, which is full of beautiful melodies, introspective lyrics, and stunning vocal performances.

Other highlights of the album include "Heart Like a Wheel," Kate's classic song of heartbreak and resilience; "Go Leave," a Rufus Wainwright song that showcases his theatrical flair; and "Factory

Mountain City Girls: The McGarrigle Family Album

4.2 out of 5