Newsletter : December 2005

Season's Greetings from Atlanta,

It has been a while since we last sent out an update, and for that I apologize.  However, I want you to know that we've been working hard on several projects we think you will enjoy. 

The first is a 5 CD retrospective of Fonotone Records, the 1950s and '60s record label run by the world's greatest record collector Joe Bussard.  Even though the recordings were originally issued on 78 rpm records and the reel-to-reel master tapes had been stored in a cigar smoke-filled basement for nearly 50 years, the results we got from the digital transfers are incredible!  Together with a 160 page book and 17 color postcards, the music, text and images display a slice of America that is unique and hard to come by in today's world.  We expect the Fonotone box set to start shipping the second week of December. 

Also forthcoming is a 2 CD release of music inspired by Mothers and the guidance and love they offer.  Compiled by Dick Spottswood, the set will be the second in our Holiday Series and should be in stores early 2006.

As for our back catalog, Where Will You Be Christmas Day? appears in the December 2005 issue of Bon Appétit Magazine on Eric Steinman's "Party Playlist for Holiday Entertaining."  We don't know if it was Susie's Butterbeans or Lord Beginner's rum, but we appreciate the mention all the same.

Speaking of mentions, Goodbye, Babylon was referenced in a recent interview with Neil Young that appeared on Weekend Edition: "I got a gift from Bob Dylan, a good old friend of mine... It's a great set called Goodbye, Babylon. It's incredible."  We were extremely flattered to have one of our releases shared by such great artists.

One last thing — if you're in the Atlanta area on January 19, 2006, come join us at the EARL around 7:30 for the Fonotone Records release party.  Joe Bussard will be there, and so will Fonotone recording artist Backwards Sam Firk.  Headlining the event will be the legendary Roan Mountain Hilltoppers, so be prepared for a history-making night!

Thanks for all your support,
Lance Ledbetter
Dust-to-Digital