Newport, Rhode Island has a storied and widely varied history. Its recent past -- from World War II to the present -- is among its most interesting epochs. Jim McGrath has been part of that recent history, both as one of the more colorful characters on the Newport scene for four decades, and as a chronicler of that period in his songs. His is the perfect voice for bringing the assembled people and places from that era to life.

   Jim Bennett, also a longtime figure in Newport's music scene, has worked with Jim McGrath as a member of the Reprobates since the early '70s. His mandolin, banjo and guitar accompaniments add just the right touch of informed musicality to these songs.

   Everyone involved had a lot of fun helping Mr. McGrath put this together. If nothing else, that fun shines through this recording.