Reviews

MIKE SCOTT AND FRIENDS HOME SWEET HOME: CIVIL WAR ERA SONGS Rural Rhythm RUR-1113 In these times of the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War, Rural Rhythm Records continues its series of releases honoring the legacy of the conflict. Next up, banjoist Mike Scott and a 14-song collection of 13 tunes popular from that era,…

DAILEY & VINCENT BROTHERS OF THE HIGHWAY Rounder Records 11661-9141-2 Dailey & Vincent’s hallmark is their powerful, exquisite, and almost transcendent harmonies. They may not be brothers by blood, but they are certainly brothers in bluegrass harmony. Six years into their partnership, the duo has, according to the accompanying press material, used their new album,…

JACK LAWRENCE ARTHEL’S GUITAR Little King Records GRR1003 For 25 years, Jack Lawrence was Doc Watson’s partner, playing rhythm and trading licks with the late great North Carolina flatpicker. In this new release, Jack plays tribute to his friend by using the 1945 Martin D-18 he was given by Doc. Jack restored the guitar and…

THE STONEMANS THE STONEMAN TRADITION Patuxent Music CD-240 Four years ago, when we last visited the Stonemans (Patsy, Donna, and Roni), they had just released their first recording in years for Tom Mindte’s Patuxent Music label. Well, they must have done all right for Tom because here they are again! Digging deep into their vast…

COVERED GRASS TOOGAROO Fishdix Records 201301 Covered Grass has become one of the most popular bluegrass ensembles in Germany, and Europe in general. The band had a very successful U.S. tour in 2012 when they showcased at the IBMA World Of Bluegrass in Nashville, Tenn. The group consists of Corina Aurin (mandolin), Volker Fisher (banjo,…

MIKE ANDES THE SONGS I SING No Label No Number Here’s a double serving of very good music. Not only does this CD serve as a demo of the great original material of this talented Ohio-based singer/songwriter, but it’s also simply an enjoyable collection of well-sung and well-played bluegrass music. You can tell that Mike…