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

Format: CD + Booklet

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 sound 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 78s, this set is both a cultural time capsule and a collection of timeless, funky songs.

What’s Included:

• 1 CD with 14 remastered tracks of vintage Luk Thung (1950s–1960s)
• 8-page illustrated booklet featuring detailed notes by David Murray and Peter Doolan

Performers Include:

• Suraphon Sombatcharoen — the “King of Luk Thung,” one of Thailand’s most beloved icons
• Waiphot Phetsuphan — a legendary singer whose powerful delivery defined the Luk Thung sound
• Phloen Phromdaen — celebrated for his humor and flamboyant style
• Namphueng Boribun & Suchat Thianthong — two key countryside voices at the heart of the movement

Praise & Reviews:

• “Soul-tugging, grassroots music from a fascinating and endearing part of the world…” — Boomkat
• The Quietus included the vinyl version on its Best Reissues, Compilations, Mixes & Live Albums (2012) list.

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.