Albums

Al Berard & Karen England

“Twin Fiddles in Perfect Harmony”

Quick Intro

Al Berard & Karen England teamed up in 2000 to record Feet Off the Ground, a twin fiddle album that pays homage to the Cajun masters while introducing original compositions and fresh interpretations. Their collaboration is rooted in the tradition of Dennis McGee and Sady Courville, blending technical finesse with emotional depth.

In-Depth Profile

Released by Swallow Records in 2000, Feet Off the Ground showcases the musical chemistry between Louisiana native Al Berard and Seattle-born fiddler Karen England. England studied under Dewey Balfa and brought a deep respect for Cajun heritage to the project. Berard, already a seasoned performer and producer, co-led the album with his signature blend of precision and soul.

The album features 15 tracks, including traditional tunes by Dennis McGee and Dewey Balfa, as well as original compositions by Berard and England. Highlights include “Rollo’s Waltz,” “TK’s Tune,” and “Ville Platte Two-Step.” Recorded, mixed, and mastered at Garey Shelton Studios, the album captures the warmth and intimacy of acoustic Cajun music at its finest.

Berard and England performed selections from the album at the Dewey Balfa Cajun and Creole Heritage Week in 2001 and 2002, earning praise for their seamless interplay and reverent approach. Though the collaboration was brief, it remains a standout example of twin fiddle artistry in the Cajun tradition.

Sadly, Al Berard passed away in 2014.

Signature Tracks

  • “Rollo’s Waltz” — a dreamy original by Karen England
  • “Ville Platte Two-Step” — a lively twin fiddle showcase
  • “TK’s Tune” — a playful original by Al Berard

Notable Accomplishments & Awards

  • Released Feet Off the Ground on Swallow Records (2000)
  • Performed at Dewey Balfa Cajun and Creole Heritage Week (2001–2002)
  • Album includes compositions by Dennis McGee, Dewey Balfa, Michael Doucet, and Cheese Read
  • Produced, recorded, and mastered at Garey Shelton Studios

Bonus Notes

  • Album features bilingual titles and liner notes
  • Photography by Brian Humphrey and John A. Gallagher
  • Published by Flat Town Music Co. BMI

Album Reviews

Feet Off the Ground
Discogs Community Summary — [Full album details](https://www.discogs.com/release/15391181-Al-Berard-Karen-England-Feet-Off-The-Ground-Old-And-New-Cajun-Tunes)

“A beautiful twin fiddle tribute to Cajun tradition, blending old-time melodies with fresh original compositions.”

Feet Off the Ground features 15 tracks including “Voyage Au Mariage,” “Evangeline Two Step,” “La Valse A Pop,” and “Canray’s Contra Dance.” The album draws heavily from the repertoire of Dennis McGee and Dewey Balfa, while introducing new works by Berard and England. The result is a warm, acoustic celebration of Cajun fiddle music, recorded with clarity and care at Garey Shelton Studios.