Simply put, Alabama natives Ira and Charlie Louvin are country music pioneers, Baptist blood brothers known for their trademark close harmony vocal style, mandolin magic, and emotive material ranging from spiritual standards, wellcrafted covers to influential originals.
The Louvin Brothers’ holy, honest, and soul affirming sound—recorded on a
series
of formative releases on the Decca label in the early 1940’s—tapped deep
into the pair’s rural religious upbringing in a strictly gospel fashion. By
the time they signed with Capitol Records in 1952, they were tried and tested
road warriors and found themselves branching out into more secular content and
delivery. In 1955, the duo was accepted as performers into Nashville country
institution the Grand Ole Opry, cementing their reputation as the best in the
business.
But there was also a dark underside to the chart-topping hit
maker’s righteous exterior. Older brother Ira, a foot taller
than the diminutive yet no less formidable Charlie, had developed a serious
drinking problem. Amplified by a feisty temper and a series of failed marriages,
his wild child nature became more of a liability than asset to the show
business
pair. In 1963, Charlie had enough, and with self-preservation in mind, quit the
Louvin Brothers. Though both soldiered on as solo acts, Ira succumbed to his
fiery demons in 1965 and lost his life in a horrific drunk driving accident.
Pushing
ahead as a much loved and respected country music ambassador and proud
gatekeeper of the Louvin’s legacy until his passing in early 2011, we are
still grieving Charlie’s departure.
Light In The Attic Records is honored to help share this American institution
with fans young and old through a series of archival re-releases. Tragic Songs
Of Life was originally released by Capitol Records in 1956, the Louvin
Brothers’ first long-player with the label. Over 12 succinct Ken Nelson
produced tracks, Ira and Charlie—backed by an economic supporting cast—sang
tales that, according to reissue liner notes writer Jessica Hundley,
“reflected the torment, tragedy, and terror of the human condition.”
Presented with original artwork, contemporary essay, rare period photos, and
beautifully re-mastered audio from the original master tapes, Tragic Songs Of
Life is perfect for late night introspection and
intimate moments, but please listen with a friend, you may need someone to hold
onto. Despite the upbeat delivery of songs like “Katie Dear,” there is
something sinister lurking in the grooves.