Country to Country

Description

Country to Country is the fourth album by the American singer and songwriter Karen Lafferty, released in the US on the Maranatha! Music imprint MRC Records (Ministry Resource Center) in 1983, distributed by Word. Also released in Europe on Maranatha! Music. The album was recorded by Joe Bellamy at Peace In The Valley Recording Studio in Arleta, California; and was produced by Al Perkins with Jonathan David Brown producing two tracks (tracks A2 and B2).

Asaph Records, CD re-issue

Mainly a CD reissue of Karen’s 1983 album of the same name, which chronicled some of the experiences of this much-travelled artist. «El Salvador» and «New Mexico Song» (two of her best ever) are from 1980, and «Love Can Build A Bridge» and «Arise And Build» are 1992 recordings. I’ve said it many times and I’ll keep on till it sinks in, Karen Lofferty is a consumate singer/songwriter. Her songs have a consistency of class you could apply a spirit level to, the voice is as sweet and clear as they come, and the emotional commitment is obvious and moving. The music’s on the Nanci Griffith side of country, the fine lineup of musicians includes Al Perkins, George Highfill, John Mehler, Jeff Lams and a host more, not forgetting Don Greber’s exellent guitar and bass work. One of the highlights is the duet with Danny Daniels on «El Salvador», but delightful moments are sprinkled generously throughout the 12 tracks. Why no UK release? Exemplary music, get on the trail of it today. [Tony Cummings, Cross Rhythms, June 1994]

LP tracklist:

Side One
A1. Story Medley: “I Love To Tell The Story” / “We’ve A Story To Tell” – 2:51
A2. “New Mexico Song” – 3:49
A3. “Stage Coach” – 3:12
A4. “His Love Is Reaching Out For You” – 3:45
A5. “Just In Time” – 4:04

Side Two
B1. “Battle In The Heavenlies” – 2:40
B2. “El Salvador” – 3:55
B3. “Wind Across Australia” – 4:23
B4. “With You” – 3:10
B5. “The Kingdom Song” – 4:31

Note: Released on 12-inch vinyl LP on both Maranatha! Music (MM0023) and their sub-label MRC Records (MRC 023). Re-issued on CD on the Maranatha! Music sub-label Asaph Records (ARD1076) in 1993 featuring new cover artwork as well as two bonus tracks; “Love Can Build a Bridge” (4:43) and “Arise and Build” (3:21).

CREDITS. Produced by Al Perkins and Jonathan David Brown (tracks A2 and B2). Engineered by Joe Bellamy. Recorded at Peace In The Valley Recording Studio, Arleta, CA. Mastered by Bernie Grundman at A&M Mastering Studios, Los Angeles, CA. Graphic Design by John Eric Seid. Handlettering by Marie Benson.

Musicians: Karen Lafferty (Lead and Backing Vocals, Acoustic Guitar), Danny Jimms (Keyboards), Jeff Lams (Keyboards), Frank Marocco (Accordion), Margarite Hermosillo (Accordion), George Highfill (Harmonica), Don Gerber (Acoustic Guitar, Banjo), Randy Mitchell (Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar), Al Perkins (Pedal Steel Guitar, Dobro), Wayne Eames (Mandolin), Tom Ferguson (Fiddle), Robert J. Parr (Bass), Sam Allen (Bass), Jim Coulson (Drums), John Mehler (Drums), Alex MacDougall (Percussion). Backing Vocals: Dan McCorison, Dan Daniels (track B2), Patty Schauer, Roby Duke.