Homer and Jethro - Playing It Straight

Playing It Straight is in my opinion one of the all-time great mandolin recordings. Not only is the music terrific, but recording a jazz album on mandolin in 1962 (on RCA Victor) was something most people hadn't even given consideration.

The album cover back will draw a laugh from serious fans of mandolin music. The back side proclaims, "All kidding aside, they're top musicians too!" This in reference to the fact that Homer and Jethro recorded a large number of comedy albums.

Among mandolin players this is one of the most frequently bootlegged recordings of all time. I had a second generation copy for ten years before acquiring the original LP in May, 1997. It's a treasure. Jethro's playing is terrific and the rhythm section is a wonder. Homer's guitar playing is the perfect foil for Jethro's melody lines.

So when I finally got my copy I knew I had to share the album artwork. There's an enlarged version here (57k) for your viewing pleasure. And if you happen to have an extra copy around the house you don't want, you know who to contact. You might also want to check out their equally famous It Ain't Necessarily Square LP.

The Tunes

1. If Dreams Come True
2. I Want to Be Happy
3. Melody from Raymond
4. Don't Be That Way
5. It's All Right with Me
6. Autumn Leaves
7. I'm Looking Over a Four Leaf Clover
8. Around the World
9. Homer and Jethro Boogie
10. Tico Tico
11. Nanner Puddin'
12. I've Found a New Baby

The Musicians

• Jethro Burns - mandolin
• Homer Haynes - acoustic guitar
• Bob Moore - acoustic bass
• Buddy Harman - drums

Related

• Ain't Necessarily Square
• Kellogs Ad
• Homer & Jethro pix