DEEPER SHADE OF BLUE

DEEPER SHADE OF BLUE
STEAM

Mountain Fever
MFR180629

This recording marks the seventh for the Charlotte, N.C.-based band and their first on the Mountain Fever label. The title-track Steamwas released as a single and the entire project is now available. It’s a solid effort that further marks the band’s upward movement in the ranks, and they’re achieving some charting airplay as measured by some radio programs.

Mountain Fever provides a nice summary of the project: “The title-track and first single is about a man who talks a good game, but is slow to action when it’s time to prove to his buddy that he’s got what it takes to pick up a woman at the bar.” With eight of the twelve songs written by bandmembers, the writing styles are varied, including a poignant love song “In Your Eyes” by Troy Pope, a true story “Kentucky Slave House” by Jason Fraley, and Frank Poindexter’s “Put Some Bluegrass In My Ear” and “Uncle Josh The Dobro King.” Newest member Scott Burgess turns in a wonderful version of “How Great Thou Art,” along with his own “Pearly Gates” and Wyatt Rice helping with “I Just Steal Away And Pray.”

Take note of the band’s version of the Del McCoury classic “Rain And Snow.”  Del has always sung this as a solo, but this band arrangement spotlights Troy on lead vocals with Scott providing the tenor work and Jason underneath with baritone.

After 17 years together, the band has truly cured with Jim Fraley on banjo/vocals, son Jason Fraley on mandolin/vocals, and Troy Pope handling guitar/vocals, along with Scott and Frank. Give this one a complete listen and enjoy some tight harmony and instrumental work.  It will make a fine addition to your music collection and may entice you to catch one of their live shows in your area.(www.mountainfever.com)BW