Hear Mike Polizze’s first-ever Lagniappe Session for Aquarium Drunkard

Mike Polizze records his debut Lagniappe Session for Aquarium Drunkard on acoustic guitar, sharing understated, intimate renditions of two traditional titles: Libba Cotten’s “Freight Train” and The Byrds’ version of “Old Blue.” Check it out here.

Have a listen and read on for Mike’s words and upcoming UK tour dates with Purling Hiss.

Freight Train (Traditional)

“I first heard Libba Cotten in the early aughts, just when I was getting into finger-style picking and Folkways stuff. “Shake Sugaree” and “Washington Blues” are up there as far as favorites go, but “Freight Train” was one that i cut at home around 2007, making it a good choice for this (here’s a newer take). It’s a classic standard covered by many, and was a huge inspiration for me.”

Old Blue (Traditional)

“My take on this traditional song is from The Byrds version (sans a B-Bender!); a melodic chord progression and chorus not present in most versions. Maybe Grandpa Jones…It’s interesting to go through all the variations and different lyrics, as there’s so many. A rather sad song about burying the beloved family dog, it’s quite relatable (except the part about possom stew). I love the Jim Jackson version as well.”

Purling Hiss UK Tour

September 2022 Tour Dates

9/3: End of the Road Festival (Mike Polizze solo set) – Wiltshire
9/4: End of the Road Fest – Wiltshire
9/5: Green Door Store – Brighton
9/6: Headrow House – Leeds
9/7: The Shipping Forecast – Liverpool
9/8: Craufurd Arms – Milton Keynes
9/9: The Lexington – London