Reviews
The Lonesome Chronicles
A distinctive quality of bluegrass music is that songs about being lonesome–not just out of sorts, but isolated, remote, veritably swirling with feelings of abandonment–can be delivered in an upbeat, practically giddy style. The title of Kathy Kallick’s latest album prepares the listener for a depressing dirge. The reality is a welcome surprise. Bluegrass Unlimited…
Every Good Path
The primary directive for bluegrass gospel music is not to simply entertain, but to invite the listener to experience something personal and spiritual. At the same time, it has to be performed in an engaging and proficient manner to even crack the door open for its higher purpose. The Chigger Hill Boys and Terri have…
The Long And Lonesome Letting Go
Jim Lauderdale has earned his reputation as the consummate collaborator over the course of his career and his latest collaboration with bluegrass powerhouse The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys (PRB) banks as one of his best in his extensive 36 album discography. The album is one of the best traditional bluegrass albums I have heard in a…
Try To Make It Fly
According to the accompanying press material, this Toronto-based band recorded an album’s worth of material, then set it aside because it lacked the live immediacy that the trio was after. Whatever John Showman (vocals and fiddle), Chris Coole (vocals and clawhammer banjo), and vocalist/upright bassist Max Malone missed on that first go-round, they certainly captured…
Music in My Soul
In the southern gospel tradition, High Fidelity proves that “church music” doesn’t have to be stodgy or sedate. “Music in My Soul” is a heaping helping of thigh-slapping, camp meeting music, with dinner on the grounds. It’s sure to bring out the listener’s inner Pentecostal. The opening track, “I’m Ready to Go” is a gleeful…
Because It’s Christmas Time
If you’re one of us who sometimes requires a significant attitude adjustment to get into the Christmas spirit, this old-time Yuletide collection is bound to give you one. Mullins, a six-time IBMA Award-winner, including 2019’s Entertainer of the Year, has, along with his talented bandmates, mined the past and revived some delightful holiday gems of…