History:

Patti Ricker, born Patricia Ricker, was a folk singer from Midland, Texas. She apparently grew up in Midland and began playing guitar there.  At only 19, Ricker recorded and released an album, “Sounds Of Music”. It was independently pressed through Houston Distributors in Texas. The album is extremely rare and desired by folk collectors. It is unknown how many copies were pressed, but it was likely less than 250. 

Two versions of the album exist. Both have the same songs but different cover art. The album contains Ricker accompanying herself on a 12-string acoustic guitar. A few tracks also feature her harmonizing on backing vocals. No original tracks are performed, just covers. 

It’s unclear if Ricker performed live during this time or what she did musically after. A novel she wrote in 1984, On The Periphery, is available at the University Of Texas, Austin. I believe she is still in Texas, where she is married and goes by Patti Black. If so, art takes up most of her spare time. Would love some more information on this one if possible. 

Review:

Sounds Of Music (1968, Not On Label)

Rating: 6/10

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A very solid folk record overall. Ricker bellows out great emotional versions of "Geordie", "It Ain't Me Babe", "Last Thing On My Mind", and "100,000 Miles". Her harmonies on "A Satisifed Mind" are pretty good too. Her voice can take some time to get used to and the song selection was a bit boring. Otherwise, it's a pleasant listen. Probably one of my best album purchases ever in terms of value (got mine for $18 if I remember correctly).