“Million Miles from Nowhere” by Jerry Bauguess (country)

Singer Jerry Bauguess of Thurmond dedicates his CD to country music like he grew up with. He describes his music as a mix of middle of the road, old and new. Bauguess wrote all songs on “Million Miles from Nowhere,” including “Living Every Moment, Loving Every Day,” “Freedom Train,” and “Loser’s Hall of Fame.” The 10-track CD sells for $14. Call (336) 874-7195, e-mail jblbcody@aol.com or visit www.jerrybauguess.com.

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“Stories of Altapass”

Musician Randy Flack and storyteller Bill Carson blend their talents on this CD to tell stories about Altapass, a history-rich hamlet on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Mountain residents shared tales about their families, which Carson translates with the help of Flack’s guitar and
banjo. The 12-track CD, recorded live, costs $15. Proceeds go to the Altapass Foundation, a nonprofit organization promoting cultural and environmental preservation through special events at The Orchard at AltaPass. Call (888) 765-9531 or visit www.altapassorchard.com.

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“Blue Ridge Music Trails”

This traveler’s guide focuses on finding and enjoying bluegrass, gospel and old-time music in communities throughout western North Carolina and southwest Virginia. More than 160 venues and events within 25 miles of the Parkway are listed, along with driving directions and maps. The events range from small jam sessions to well-known festivals that draw thousands. Also included are profiles of artists, nearly 150 color photographs, information about various performance styles and a brief history of Blue Ridge music. A companion Web site, www.blueridgemusic.org, supplements the book. “Blue Ridge Music Trails: Finding A Place in the Circle” by Fred C. Fussell is $15.95 in softcover from The University of North Carolina Press. Call (800) 848-6224 or visit www.uncpress.unc.edu.

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Merlefest CDs

“Fresh Faces at MerleFest 2003” offers up a collection of songs by the artists who performed at the most recent Merlefest, held in Wilkesboro annually. Artists on the new CD include Hot Rize, Sally Jones, Red Stick Ramblers, Lynn Morris, Mountain Heart and Polecat Creek. The 21-track CD is $11.95. Also for sale is “MerleFest Live,” featuring musical collaborations from Doc Watson, Sam Bush, John Cowan, Alison Krauss, Albert Lee, Patty Loveless, Tim O’Brien, Tony Rice, Peter Rowan, Earl Scruggs and other acoustic stars. The 19-track CD is $16.95 and is also available on DVD and VHS video. Visit www.mfstore.org or call (800) 871-2738.

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