Album Review: Rhiannon Giddens & Justin Robinson - What Did the Blackbird Say to the Crow

In our book, Rhiannon Giddens can do no wrong. A master of banjo, fiddle, and voice, she effortlessly spans old-time, blues, gospel, and opera. After gaining recognition with the Grammy-winning Carolina Chocolate Drops, she revitalized the Black string band tradition, later venturing into Celtic and Italian folk, classical, country, collaborating with Francesco Turrisi, Beyoncé and Yo-Yo Ma. With a MacArthur “Genius” Grant and multiple Grammys, she continues to educate and entertain in equal measures.

What Did the Blackbird Say to the Crow brings Giddens back together with Carolina Chocolate Drops co-founder Justin Robinson for a deep dive into the roots that shaped them. Most of the album’s 18 tracks come straight from their late mentor, Piedmont fiddler Joe Thompson (1918-2012), with one picked up from studying Etta Baker (1913-2006)’s recordings. Recorded outdoors at Thompson’s and Baker’s homes, as well as the Mill Prong House—a former plantation—the music is steeped in history, with the wind and cicadas weaving naturally into the sound.

What’s striking here isn’t just the authenticity but how alive it feels. The pristine recording quality doesn’t polish the soul out of these songs—it amplifies it. Everything is crystal clear, from the snap of the fiddle to the pluck of the banjo, all spread beautifully in stereo, giving these tunes the space they deserve.

It’s easy to forget how irresistibly danceable this music is—Piedmont and Appalachian blues, hillbilly jigs, string bands, and jug band tunes meant to get feet moving and spirits lifted. More than just a collection of old songs, What Did the Blackbird Say to the Crow is a direct link to a tradition that stretches back to before the Civil War. In times like these, revisiting that history feels urgent. The lessons carried in this music are a reminder of how far we’ve come, what it cost to get here—and why it still matters. But first, we dance!

Genre: Piedmont Blues
Release date: April 18th, 2025
Produced by: Rhiannon Giddens and Joseph "joebass" DeJarnette
Label: Nonesuch Records
Rating: 9/10