Karen James

Rather than drawing only on popular folk songs, singer and guitarist Karen James selected a repertoire for this album that reflects both the history and traditions of her native Canada and contemporary events. She performs folk songs from Newfoundland and Nova Scotia, and others on topics such as illegal immigration, a mining tragedy, and even Pete Seeger's refusal to testify before the House Un-American Activities Commission in 1955. These choices demonstrate James’s belief that folk songs are meant to record history and emotion, as well as to provide entertainment. Liner notes include a short biography and song lyrics.