Although some might be surprised by a thematic Charlie Louvin album dealing with death and despair, one needn't look any further than the very first Louvin Brothers album to find a connection. TRAGIC SONGS OF LIFE, released in 1956, is full of emotional songs detailing heartbreak, betrayal, violence and loss. Inspired by Tompkins Squares recent Grammy-nominated 3 CD box set PEOPLE TAKE WARNING! MURDER BALLADS & DISASTER SONGS, 1913-1938, Charlie reached back for a couple of songs from that first Louvin's album, five songs from the box set, and assorted other choice picks to create a moving and sometimes raucous new take on traditional songs of tragedy. Guests musicians include Andrew Bird and Chris Scruggs.