Reviews

MICHAEL CLEVELAND FIDDLER’S DREAM Compass Records 4674    Since bursting onto the scene as one of IBMA’s Kids On Bluegrass, Michael Cleveland has become perhaps the most honored bluegrass fiddler of his generation. Blessed with astonishing gifts in overall musicianship and in his utter command of every style and nuance known to the fiddle world, Cleveland…

JOSH GRIGSBY AND COUNTY LINE RUBY LANE MEMORIES No Label No Number This pleasant release by the Virginia group Josh Grigsby and County Line is highlighted by the fine lead singing of Grigsby and the excellent harmonies from the rest of the band. On their second release as a band, the group shines on cuts…

KENNY & AMANDA SMITH UNBOUND Farm Boy Records No Number Since their first project in 2001, Kenny and Amanda Smith have become one of bluegrass music’s most endearing and solid duos. Amanda (vocals) and Kenny (guitar, vocals) are joined on this project by Jacob Burleson (mandolin), Kyle Perkins (bass), Justin Jenkins (banjo), and Wayne Winkle…

JOE K. WALSH BORDERLAND No Label No Number Despite establishing himself as a formidable presence in the world of bluegrass and traditional mandolin with stints working for the Gibson Brothers, Darol Anger’s Mr. Sun, and duos with the likes of Courtney Hartman and Grant Gordy, Joe Walsh still probably gets more attention from being confused…

TYLER GRANT EARTH & WOOD Grant Central Records GCR 1602 The world of flatpicking guitar is a mighty competitive one these days, with each picker hotter, faster, and flashier than the one before. It can be hard to stand out musically, but Tyler Grant has used his versatility to make a strong impression on his…

BANJO DAN THE SLEEPING SENTINEL: BANJO DAN’S SONGS OF VERMONT, VOLUME IV No Label VSB 110 A pioneer of the second wave of New England bluegrass musicians, Banjo Dan Lindner has led his Mid-Nite Plowboys since 1972. He started the Banjo Dan’s Songs Of Vermont series back in 1987 and has released one volume per…