Inside

Dave Van Ronk’s status as a folk music legend is rooted both in his powerful music and his role as a mentor to numerous younger artists (Bob Dylan among them). His rough-hewn yet nimble vocal style can be heard to its best advantage on 1962’s Inside, an album containing many of his signature tunes. To many longtime folk fans, Van Ronk is best known for the rowdy, raw-throated zest he brought to upbeat blues material. A closer listen, though, reveals his great sensitivity and tenderness as a song interpreter. In his hands, the longing and pathos within traditional fare like “House Carpenter,” “Fair and Tender Ladies," and “Kentucky Moonshiner” take on fresh life. His nuanced, bittersweet treatment of British and Irish songs like “Sprig of Thyme” and “Shanty Man’s Life” are a high point. Also not to be missed are comedic numbers like the darkly funny “Talking Cancer Blues” and the droll “He Never Came Back.” Guitar, dulcimer, and autoharp accompaniment adds variety to the performances. For those delving into Van Ronk’s rich musical legacy for the first time, Inside is an excellent place to start.