44 & 66

44 & 66 is Greg Brown's second album, originally released in 1980 on Rose Alley Records and reissued in 1984 as the second release from the newly established Red House Records. Produced by Brown, the album captures an early stage in his artistic development, blending the streetwise grit of Tom Waits with the emotional directness of Willie McTell. Moving between urban scenes and rural landscapes, songs such as "Downtown" and "Early" reflect Brown's gift for finding poetry in both city streets and one-horse towns.

Compared with the homespun warmth of The Iowa Waltz, 44 & 66 presents a moodier and more expansive songwriting approach. AllMusic reviewer Jeff Schwachter described the album as a darker work that broadens Brown's lyrical scope while revealing the talents that would come to full maturity on later releases, calling it "an early album from one of the most enduring careers in contemporary songwriting" that "should not be overlooked."

Featuring Brown on vocals and guitar alongside Chuck Henderson (guitar), Dave Moore (harmonica), Ron Rohovit (bass), Al Soucek (clarinet), Prudence Johnson (background vocals), and Gary Delaney (mandolin), the album combines understated arrangements with Brown's vivid storytelling and distinctive voice. Though recorded early in his career, 44 & 66 offers a compelling glimpse of the songwriter who would become one of contemporary folk music's most respected and enduring voices.