A star studded curatorial compilation, Handpicked Songs 1955-1962 (LITA 074, LP) is a shot of Louvin Brothers magic. This LP features 14 tracks performed by the Louvin Brothers during their golden era, each personally selected by the likes of Beck, Emmylou Harris, Will Oldham, Kris Kristofferson, Jim James, and Dolly Parton, all housed in a deluxe Stoughton gatefold sleeve plus a full color insert with period archival photos, and extensive liner notes along with meticulously re-mastered audio from the original tapes. Morning, noon or night, let the Louvin Brothers take you to a simpler time, when good old country music ruled the airwaves. * Deluxe 180gm LP housed in old school tip-on Gatefold jacket * Includes full color insert with period archival photos, and extensive liner notes * Beautifully re-mastered audio from the original master tapes++++++++++++Simply put, Alabama natives Ira and Charlie Louvin are country music pioneers, Baptist blood brothers known for their trademark close harmony vocal style, mandolin magic, and emotive material ranging from spiritual standards, well-crafted covers to influential originals. The Louvin Brothers' holy, honest, and soul affirming sound-recorded on a series of formative releases on the Decca label in the early 1940's-tapped deep into the pair's rural religious upbringing in a strictly gospel fashion. By the time they signed with Capitol Records in 1952, they were tried and tested road warriors and found themselves branching out into more secular content and delivery. In 1955, the duo was accepted as performers into Nashville country institution the Grand Ole Opry, cementing their reputation as the best in the business. But there was also a dark underside to the chart-topping hit maker's righteous exterior. Older brother Ira, a foot taller than the diminutive yet no less formidable Charlie, had developed a serious drinking problem.