Divided & United: The Songs Of The Civil War[2 CD]

ATO Records and music supervisor Randall Poster (Moonrise Kingdom, Boardwalk Empire, Rave On Buddy Holly) have joined forces to releases Divided & United: Songs of the American Civil War., a two -disc set of Civil War songs brought to life through fresh interpretations by the pioneers. Hall of Famers and rising young stars of county, bluegrass , folk and beyond. The collections celebrates music deeply vital to the history and spirit of America in tribute to the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. Each song offers a unique window on the past, with themes exploring race identity and reconciliation in a manner that echoes profoundly today. The tremendous talents on Divided & United pan several generation and genres: Loretta Lynne, Dolly Parton, Vince Gill, Lee Ann Womack, Ralph Stanley, AA Bondy, Jamey Johnson, Chris Thile, Carolina Chocolate Drops, Taj Mahal, Shovels & Rope, Cowboy Jack Clement John Doe Karen Elson and many more.

Divided & United also features an essay by noted musician filmmaker and historian JohnCohen, who writes: "This record aspires to erase the legacy of segregation and through music seeks reconciliation instead, in order to celebrate a great musical heritage of America, born in pain, war and prejudice."

Poster was inspired to make "Dived & United" while working on the film "Country Strong" in Nashville. While there he explored Music Row's rich history and happened upon a Nashville Tennessean cover story noting the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. Poster hand-picked the artists involved and with the help of meter bluegrass guitarist Bryan Sutton, assembled the collection after extensive research.
The songs represent hope and loss, camaraderie and compassion, and the distinct voices of the North and South: born out of specific battles and turning points, sentimental, parlor songs and spirituals of the period, songs that soldiers brought into battle with them, abolition and minstrel songs and more.