Ancient Songs, et al.

If you’re a bluegrass purist looking for an album that sounds like it just wandered from the Appalachian foothills, look no further. Ancient Songs et al is heavily fortified with evangelical hymns, Woody Guthrie, Townes Van Zandt, AP Carter, and of course, Bill Monroe. Dry Branch Fire Squad seeks to preserve the essence of these artists by encapsulating their sound and I think that most listeners will agree that they were successful in doing so.

There’s a heavy and large hearted quality to the voice of lead singer and bandleader Ron Thomason, who founded Dry Branch Fire Squad in 1976. His voice practically sings through a river of tears in the final track “Ride Me on Home” written by Willie Nelson.  This a rather large counterpoint to the band’s reputation as a tremendous live act, known for Thomason’s humor that he sprinkles in between songs during their live shows. While many hands and voices have lent their talents to the group, currently they are compromised of Thomason, Brian Aldridge, Jeff Byrd and Evan Lanier. At 40 years of playing 80 festivals, Dry Branch Fire Squad are practically the Rolling Stones of the bluegrass world.

The music these four produce is pure, unadulterated bluegrass with a heavy traditional focus. And much in line with bluegrass tradition, there are often switched musical roles as far as who’s playing what. Most of the record has Brian, Ron and Evan trading off on guitar, banjo and mandolin. Jeff Byrd is on stand up bass, also singing bass and baritone vocals to match. Brian Aldridge is singing tenor and high baritone vocals. Evan is often playing three finger banjo, with Ron doing most of the claw hammer banjo playing. 

Not even the Stones do all that during a show, so most fans agree the Dry Branch Fire Squad performances are the stuff of legend. The music will move folks to tears, and Ron Thomason’s jokes will leave everyone in stitches. But for those who don’t get out much, you can add this is one of many stellar albums the group have recorded.