Our 18th program focusing on the music of Bob Dylan finds us discussing his output in the early and mid-nineties. Most of the material released by Dylan during this time period consists of his interpretations of ‘roots’ music, often reaching back to early material from English, Irish and American traditions.

Some fans considered this work to be an aberration, expecting Dylan to write his own material. However, it is quite plain to even a casual fan that Dylan has always been a champion of traditional blues and folk songs, and has often used these songs as a basis for his own writing. For that reason alone, it is fascinating to hear Dylan’s interpretation of songs that have affected him during the course of his own lifetime. The experience is further heightened by Dylan’s maturing voice, which somehow adds to the dark, surreal feel that these songs have maintained for decades. Like many of the artists who originally recorded these songs, Dylan imbeds his essence into the material without replacing the spirit that makes these songs so timeless.

Here’s a list of material featured in today’s program;

Wiggle Wiggle

Unbelievable

Cat’s in the Well

Frankie and Albert (excerpt) – Mississippi John Hurt

Frankie and Albert

Black Jack Davey (excerpt) - The Carter Family

Black Jack Davey

Broke Down Engine (excerpt) – Blind Willie McTell

Broke Down Engine

Blood in My Eyes (excerpt) – Mississippi Sheiks

Blood in My Eyes

Pretty Boy Floyd

John Brown (live MTV)