Jukebox Upchuck #27

Apparently, Charlie Louvin is going to play Bonnaroo this year, which surprises me as he turns 80 this July. He and his brother, Ira (long deceased), formed one of the best country gospel acts of their day. You'll recognize "The Christian Life," as Gram Parsons/The Byrds, among others, popularized it among the cool country set. For some fucking stupid reason, the Country Music Hall of Fame waited until 2001 to enshrine them. It's easy to hear where all sorts of followers may have gained inspiration from their recordings; the modern act that always pops into my mind first is The Handsome Family. Here's a couple tunes from their essential 1959 album, Satan Is Real.

The Louvin Brothers – "The Christian Life"
The Louvin Brothers – "Are You Afraid To Die"