Doc & Merle Watson – Down South

This is tied with one other collection for being my favorite Doc Watson album. The other is his “Essential” collection on Vanguard.

But I really love this record. Partly it’s just beautiful to hear him play with his son.

Partly it’s the musicianship across the board—the playing is just outstanding.

Partly it’s the recording aesthetic. It’s just very clean, very pure, very natural.

Partly it’s the track list. It’s simply a remarkable roster of songs, and includes so many of my favorites, including: Sliding Delta, Coal Miner’s Blues, Cotton-Eyed Joe, and the gorgeous instrumental Twin Sisters.

Especially it’s Bright Sunny South. My lord, I love this song.

And mainly, of course, it’s Doc Watson.