The sound on this album is reminiscent of the New York folk-rock band
The Blues Project. It begins with a ragged rendition of
The Hollywood Argyles' "Alley Oop" and ranges from that doo wop chestnut to
Joni Mitchell's "Chelsea Morning and Clouds" to "Romping Through the Swamp." More familiar
Van Ronk territory is covered, also with reprise performances of "Dink's Song" and "Cocaine."
Dave Van Ronk always brings his enthusiastic roar to his material and makes it his own. His rendition of "Swing on a Star" is but one example. The Hudson Dusters seem to be a combination electric jugband, folk orchestra and bubblegum band, as on "Mr. Middle." A strange collection. ~ Richard Meyer