Ep 4. The American Epic Sessions
- TV-14
- June 6, 2017
- 116 min
-
(21)
The American Epic Sessions is the fourth episode of the documentary series American Epic. This episode is all about a group of contemporary musicians who come together to record music using the same technology that was prevalent nearly a century ago.
The episode opens with footage of an old recording studio in Camden, New Jersey, where many of the earliest American recordings were made. The episode then transitions to modern times, where we see Jack White, T Bone Burnett, and Robert Redford discussing the idea for the American Epic Sessions. The group has brought back the technology and techniques of the 1920s to record contemporary artists in a vintage, authentic style.
From here, the episode shifts to the recording studio, where we see a dozen or so musicians from various genres coming together to record a series of songs. There are established artists like Elton John, Willie Nelson, and Taj Mahal, as well as rising stars like Rhiannon Giddens and Alabama Shakes. There are also lesser-known artists like Pokey LaFarge and The Americans, who all share a love for traditional American music.
Over the course of the episode, we see each of the artists stepping up to the microphone to record their songs. We see the process that they go through to get the perfect take, including discussions between the producer and the performers. We also get some insights into the history of the songs that they are recording, as well as the lives and careers of the musicians themselves.
One of the biggest joys of the episode is watching the artists come together to create something amazing. Despite their varied backgrounds and styles, they all seem to be having a great time working together. We see them collaborating on arrangements, experimenting with different instruments, and even dancing and singing backup for each other.
As the episode progresses, we get a sense of the broader themes that tie this music together. Many of the songs deal with issues like poverty, inequality, racism, and other struggles that have faced Americans throughout the centuries. There are also songs that celebrate the beauty and diversity of America, paying tribute to everything from blues and gospel to folk and country.
One of the standout performances of the episode is Elton John’s rendition of “Two Fingers of Whiskey.” He brings a theatricality and a vitality to the song that really makes it come alive. Another highlight is the collaboration between Rhiannon Giddens and Dom Flemons, who work together to create a fresh take on the classic Appalachian folk song “Moonshiner.”
Overall, The American Epic Sessions is a powerful testament to the enduring power of American music. By recording these songs in a vintage, authentic style, the producers and artists are able to transport us back in time and make us feel like we are hearing these songs for the very first time. It’s a truly epic experience that will leave you feeling inspired and moved.