Luk Thung: Classic & Obscure 78s from the Thai Countryside

Funky, heartfelt, and irresistibly groovy—this collection uncovers the raw sound of Thai country music during its golden era.

Luk Thung: Classic & Obscure 78s from the Thai Countryside brings together 14 previously unreissued tracks recorded between the 1950s and early 1960s. Luk Thung—literally “child of the fields”—is Thailand’s down-home country music, blossoming as rural Thais migrated to Bangkok for work. The music blends traditional folk with unexpected international influences: wild accordions and Latin horn sections rub shoulders with Thai hand drums and finger cymbals, while charismatic vocalists sing of love, struggle, and rural life.

Lovingly transferred and mastered from rare 78rpm records, this set offers both a cultural time capsule and a collection of timeless, funky songs.

What’s Included

• 14 remastered tracks of vintage Luk Thung (1950s–60s)
• View the complete tracklist here: [Insert hosted PDF link]
• 8-page illustrated booklet (PDF) featuring:
• Detailed notes by compiler David Murray and writer Peter Doolan

Performers Include

• Suraphon Sombatcharoen – known as the “King of Luk Thung,” one of Thailand’s most beloved musical icons.
• Waiphot Phetsuphan – a legendary singer whose powerful delivery helped define the Luk Thung sound.
• Phloen Phromdaen – celebrated for his humor and flamboyant style.
• Namphueng Boribun & Suchat Thianthong – two key voices from the countryside, reflecting the roots of this movement.

Praise & Reviews

“Soul-tugging, grassroots music from a fascinating and endearing part of the world…”

— Boomkat

The vinyl version of this release made the Best Reissues, Compilations, Mixes & Live Albums list compiled by The Quietus in 2012.

Compiler

David Murray, curator of Haji Maji (dedicated to Asian 78 rpm recordings) and shellachead.com (global 78s). Murray also produced Dust-to-Digital’s Kassidat: Raw 45s from Morocco and Longing for the Past: The 78 rpm Era in Southeast Asia.