The beloved Canadian sister-duo Kate & Anna McGarrigle appeared on the folk scene with a self-titled debut in 1976 and a follow-up in 1977. While those two titles have been reissued throughout the years, the pair’s third album (which has been out of print since its initial vinyl release) has never been available on CD. Despite its many charms, it’s probably been the least-heard Kate & Anna McGarrigle album. That is about to change thanks to Omnivore Recordings, on July 1, 2016.
Pronto Monto (a play on the French for “take your coat”) appeared in 1978, and featured the sisters’ gorgeous vocals and impeccable songwriting, as well as covers and a new track penned by the album’s producer David Nichtern—whose “Midnight At The Oasis,” which appeared on Maria Muldaur’s self-titled 1974 album, was nominated for multiple Grammy®s. Coincidentally, that Muldaur record was released at the same time that Anna’s “Heart Like A Wheel” became the title track of Linda Ronstadt’s breakthrough.
Backing Kate & Anna on Pronto Monto was a veritable who’s who of studio aces including Grady Tate, Steve Gadd, David Spinozza, Tony Levin, Bernard Purdie, and others.
This long-time-coming reissue features the release’s original 12 tracks, newly remastered by Grammy® winner Michael Graves, as well as photos, lyrics, and a new essay from Mark Leviton from conversations/remembrances from Anna McGarrigle, David Nichtern, Lenny Waronker and Joe Boyd.
Out of the marketplace for far too long, Pronto Monto finally reclaims its place in Kate & Anna McGarrigle’s stellar canon. For those who have never heard it, it will be a revelation. For those who have, it’s wonderful to welcome this recording back—almost four decades later.
CD Track List:
1. Oh My Heart
2. Side Of Fries
3. Just Another Broken Heart
4. Na Cl
5. Pronto Monto
6. Stella By Artois
7. Bundle Of Sorrow, Bundle Of Joy
8. Come Back Baby
9. Tryin’ To Get To You
10. Fixture In The Park
11. Dead Weight
12. Cover Up My Head
Pronto Monto is released July 1, 2016 via Omnivore Recordings