The alway on-point Soul Jazz label continues to dig and collect the best in overlooked and under-appreciated genres with this collection of Country (yes, country) gems from pioneering female artists. The Country Soul Sisters compilation charts the rise of female singers within the genre from the years of 1952 to 1978. Everyone know Dolly Parton and probably Nancy Sinatra too, but have you heard of Loretta Lynn, Tanya Tucker, Bobbie Gentry and Tammy Wynette? Unless you are a country fan, probably not. This comp focuses on songs that are far removed from the traditional conservative image of Country music and actually deal with serious and pressing topics such as female empowerment, bigotry, workplace sexual harassment, and abortion. Not exactly songs about dogs and old pick up trucks that's for sure! From the label: "Forget outlaw country or alt. country, male dominance of country music meant that female country singers were the original outsiders – simply by nature of being themselves. What is so equally fascinating is how these artists managed to negotiate a space for themselves that was acceptable to the general male conservative hierarchies whilst at the same time remaining true to themselves as both artists and women for their largely female public." Double CD version comes with 68 page full color book filled with extensive liner notes profiling the rise of female artists in country with artist profiles, interviews and archive photography. Limited edition double LP version comes in beautiful gatefold sleeve with full sleeve notes on thick, loud import vinyl.

• music label: Soul Jazz 2012

reviewed by Extravagant Traveler 10/2012