Old Country Songs

Two Polish polka purists have recently released a cassette featuring new “old” sounds and it has been receiving raves from both Polish and polka fans everywhere. “Old Country Songs,” by “Chet Kowalkowski” &”John Jaworski” of Chicago, features vocals by these two polka musicians backed by the music of the Moutaineer Musicians. (Goralskie Muzykanci) Kowalkowski, well known for this vocals with Eddie Blazonczyk’s Versatones in the 1960’s, was the brainstorm behind this cassette and the original concept of this collection was originated during his childhood. He would watch his Father performing with many of the Polish Highlanders at friends and relatives with instrumenta tion, consisting of violin, cello, concertina and/or accordion. Kowalkowski has attempted to simulate that style of Polish music on this recording. Music and lyrics in this recording were compiled through the efforts of both Jaworkski and Kowalkowski. It has been their long time ambition to produce such a recording featuring Polish folk tunes as played in the Polish villages many years ago. The musicians featured on this tape have been chosen for their ability to duplicate the music of their Polish heritage. The “old country” flavor of this cassette is the real “plus.” Blending the recording quality of today with the “sound” of yesterday, “Original Old Country Songs,” should be of interest to Polka and traditional Polish music lovers. This is a must for polka purists and for those interested in authentic village music of Poland. Accompanying the cassette is a printed booklet with biographical histories of the musicians and lyrics for all the songs. – Steve Litwin – Polka Editor – Polish American Journal.