Their classic material is presented effortlessly. “Tom Dooley,” “Where Have All The Flowers Gone,” “Scotch and Soda,” “Greenback Dollar,” and M.T.A. all transport the listener back to a simpler time when the song’s story was important and entertaining.
It is interesting to hear the Kingston Trio tackling songs of the time. Such Bob Dylan songs as “Tomorrow Is A Long Time,” “One Too Many Mornings,” and “Baby You Been On My Mind” are changed and made simpler under the musical direction of the Kingston Trio. The group had the good sense to avoid Dylan’s overtly protest songs as they did not fit their style. Gordon Lightfoot's, “Early Morning Rain,” and Donovan’s, “Colours,” are given sensitive treatments. The rousing harmonies of “Wimoweh” show years of practice.
The audience reaction is sedate at first and gradually builds until they are totally invested and clapping and cheering.
Once Upon A Time is a fitting conclusion to the first Kingston Trio era and should not be missed.
Twice Upon A Time came to life as a result of Once Upon A Time being reissued. It was found that the original tapes included a number of alternate performances and even some songs that were not included on the original release. These performances were gathered together and released as a separate CD, appropriately titled Twice Upon A Time.
There is a lot of repetition on this companion CD. Once Upon A Time may be enough for many people and it does have a better feel for being an actual concert. If you are a Kingston Trio fan who wants every song the group ever produced or are just plain curious, then this second CD is for you. Live versions of Tom Paxton’s, “Where I’m Bound,” Eric Anderson’s, Thirsty Boots,” plus “The Spinning Of The World,” “Little Maggie,” “Reuben James” and more all make their Kingston Trio debuts.
The real gem contained on Twice Upon A Time is a live video version of Bob Dylan’s, “Tomorrow Is A Long Time.” This rare video shows how dynamic and polished the Kingston Trio were in concert.
Once Upon A Time and Twice Upon A Time would be welcome additions to any person’s musical library.
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