Reviews

BIG RED BARN BARN AGAIN No Label Brb002 Big Red Barn is either a bluegrass band disguised as a fun-loving bar band or a fun-loving bar band disguised as a bluegrass band. Listening to their CD, Barn Again, it’s clear that whichever rings most true, they have eclectic tastes and adept musical imaginations. Despite a…

BLUEGRASS JAMMING ON FIDDLE—BY WAYNE ERBSEN. (Native Ground Books and Music, 109 Bell Rd., Asheville, NC 28805, www.nativeground.com.) Wayne Erbsen has taught many folks how to play a variety of instruments and additionally has written many books to teach and learn from. The true depth of his experiences can be seen in this book that…

ISAAC CANTOR ROAD TO NOYO ICR Records ICR-12 The secret to success is knowing your strengths and how to build upon them. Mr. Cantor does just this on this nine cut project. Surrounding himself with some of the best pickers in the Bay Area, this Californian shares the spotlight with them, resulting in an interesting…

LOU REID AND CAROLINA CALLIN’ ME BACK HOME KMA Records KMA 000-1 Of the three Lou Reid CDs on which the current Carolina lineup of Kristy Reid, Shannon Slaughter and Trevor Watson plays, “My Own Set Of Rules” is the benchmark. The sound was highly varied, the material was, almost across the board, above average,…

DOYLE LAWSON & QUICKSILVER SING ME A SONG ABOUT JESUS Mountain Home MH13932 One of the hallmarks of the most enduring and influential bandleaders is their ability to spot and willingness to nurture young talent, thus paving the way for a new generation of trendsetters. This certainly is the case with Doyle Lawson and his…

THE BING BROTHERS BAND, FEATURING JAKE KRACK LIVE FROM POCAHONTAS COUNTY WEST VIRGINIA No Label No Number Right after the band introduction on this live recording done at the Pocahontas County Opera House, Mike Bing asks, “Before we get started, has anyone ever heard of Sherman Hammons around this place?” Then Tim Bing dives into…