Reviews

Review: Junior Sisk & Rambler's Choice-The Story of the Day That I Died

If you are a fan of Junior Sisk and Rambler’s Choice, then you do not want to miss the latest album, The Story of the Day that I Died. From the first song to the last, Junior Sisk continues his great style of combining great singing with great songs.

From the first moment I put the album into my stereo, I played each and every song at least once, many numerous times in the course of a day and since. This album continues the bluesy, soulful, melancholy, straightforward but enjoyable bluegrass that has been the hallmark of his style for years.

Review: Della Mae - This World Oft Can Be

 

Well, if you want to get on my good side, cover a song from Laura Boosinger, and indeed that’s how Della Mae starts this collection. “Letter from Down the Road” is a traditional song with new words and arrangement from Boosinger, and the version included here is a very faithful romp through a delightful piece. From there, Della Mae keeps the energy up on what is easily the best release from them to date.

Review: Dailey & Vincent - Brothers of the Highway

There are lots of good bluegrass albums and there are a few great ones. There are also some that stand out even above that list and this new release from Dailey and Vincent is going to prove to be one of those. It’s the sixth album from a band that remained consistent throughout their career, both in terms of quality and line up. They’ve won all sorts of awards and the pedigree of both Jamie Dailey and Darrin Vincent is unequivocal, coming from careers with Doyle Lawson and Ricky Skaggs bands, respectively.

Review: A Bluegrass Gospel Songbook

In the liner notes for her Lifeline gospel album, Iris Dement states that to her, gospel songs from her mother’s youth were less about religion, but rather about the promise of wisdom and solace for those going through rough times. I am 60 years old and have been a bluegrass fan since age 20. I have always enjoyed bluegrass gospel songs as part of the genre. As I age and face the troubles of life, I have come to prefer bluegrass gospel tunes over more secular bluegrass fare. Most of my life I have been neo-pagan; I hadn’t worshipped in a church since my youth. Recently I returned to church, drawn by the music and perhaps some of the message is sinking in. I still enjoy classic gospel songs, but remain very eclectic in my religious views. “Are you a Christian, child? Ma’am, I am tonight.” – Marc Cohen (“Walking in Memphis”).

Review: Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers, They're Playing My Song

Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers latest album, They’re Playing My Song (Rebel Records), is a celebration of the group’s bluegrass, country and gospel roots. Starting with the first track “A Blue Million Tears” (written by Joe Mullins) and continuing through to the last of 14 tracks, I was impressed by the richness and texture of their harmonies and the band’s strong, cohesive sound. This is an album that deserves to be listened to multiple times (and I did!). Each time I played through the CD, I found more to appreciate.

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