When David Holt packs his musical suitcase, it's pretty light: a couple spoons, some bones, a harmonica, and a small washboard. All of it could probably fit into a paper bag, and the beauty of it is that Holt can play the paper bag as well. Knee-slapping, chest-thumping, and mouth-popping, instructor David Holt even shows viewers how to play their own bodies when they're short on actual instruments (technically, this is called "hambone"). Viewers will learn how to play the spoons, the bones (wood or ebony or cow will do), the washboard using K-Mart thimbles (taught to Holt by 123-year-old Susie Brunson), and, yes, a plain old paper bag. The tips and techniques are clearly presented, and the kinetic Holt is a pure blast to watch in action. Even teens--the almost impossible to reach age group--might be drawn to this due to the popularity of the recently disbanded Soundgarden's alternative anthem "Spoonman," which profiles a spoon player. Highly recommended. Aud: E, I, J, H, P. (R. Pitman)
Folk Rhythms
(1996) 47 min. $19.95. Homespun Video. PPR. Color cover. Vol. 12, Issue 3
Folk Rhythms
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