This CD is a collection of my favorite songs from"Rise Up Singing", the songbook I created with my husband, Peter Blood, in 1988 (published by Sing Out, Inc!). For the past 20 years I have been leading sing-alongs across the United States, Canada and abroad (using our songbook) and finally decided it was time to choose some of my favorites from the book and sing them the way I hear them - just for you! The final result is a collection of songs that are about my family roots and songs that speak to my commitment to compassionate social justice. I am an old timey banjo player from way back when and love the Carter Family, Lily Mae Ledford, Doc Watson and Olla Belle Reed. I believe I stayed true to my love of traditional folk music with this recording. Asking the talented and musically wise Jim Henry to produce this CD was a very smart move on my part and I was extremely lucky to have such notable talents as Tracy Grammer, Katryna and Nerissa Nields, Claire Brandenburg Taylor and Mary Witt agree to add their delicious harmonies to my vocals. The last song on this CD is by Joan Baez and is one of my all time favorite songs (All the Weary Mothers of the Earth). It has not been recorded very much (don't ask me why!) and I am proud to share my interpretation with you. The line from this song," When the sun is low upon the field, to love and music they will yield" just about sums it all up for me. You can read more about me, Rise Up Singing and this CD on my website, www.quakersong.org. Thanks for checking out Mountain Side - I hope you like it! ~ Annie