Clydeoscope by Clyde Davenport: A Hidden Gem of Appalachian Music
If you’re into folk tunes that feel like they’ve been plucked straight outta the hills, Clydeoscope by Clyde Davenport is worth a spin. Released in 1986 on County Records, this album dives deep into Appalachian music—a style that’s raw, earthy, and full of soul. It’s not flashy or overproduced; instead, it feels like sitting on a porch somewhere in rural America, sipping sweet tea while someone plays their heart out.
The tracklist reads like a collection of old stories passed down through generations. Songs like “Ladies On The Steamboat” and “Kitty Puss” (yes, there are two versions of that one!) bring charm and character to the table. But let me tell ya, the ones I can’t get outta my head are “Coal Creek March” and “Roses In The Morning.”
“Coal Creek March” hits hard right from the start. There’s something about the fiddle work here—it’s lively but also kinda haunting, like it’s telling you a tale of hardship and hope all at once. You don’t need lyrics to feel what Davenport’s trying to say. It’s the kind of tune that sticks with you long after the record stops spinning.
Then there’s “Roses In The Morning,” which flips the vibe entirely. This one’s softer, almost dreamy. It feels like waking up to sunlight streaming through an old farmhouse window. The melody has this gentle sway to it, perfect for lazy mornings when life slows down just enough to breathe. Every time I hear it, I picture wildflowers swaying in the breeze—simple yet beautiful.
What makes Clydeoscope special isn’t just the music itself but how authentic it feels. Clyde Davenport wasn’t chasing trends or fame—he was sharing his roots, his culture, his people. Tracks like “Old Cow Died In The Forks Of The Branch” might sound quirky as heck, but they remind you that music doesn’t always have to be serious to mean something.
By the end of the album, you realize this isn’t just a bunch of songs—it’s a snapshot of a time and place. Listening to it feels like stepping back into history, where life moved slower and every note carried weight. And honestly? That’s kinda refreshing in today’s world.
Oh, and here’s a random thought: If these tracks were played at a barn dance, I bet even the chickens would tap their feet. Now THAT’S good music!
