Crowe Brothers – Bridging The Gap

CROWE BROTHERS
BRIDGING THE GAP
Rural Rhythm
RUR-1087

The Crowe Brothers plow all the way to the fence on this project. They are probably the best brother unit out there today. With able help from Steve Sutton on banjo, Brian Blaylock on mandolin and guitar, Steve Thomas on fiddle and mandolin, and Randy Kohrs on resonator guitar, they sing their way through a baker’s dozen of songs that speak of lives to which most can relate.

The harmonies these fellows have recall some of the great brother duets of the past. “Snow Woman,” “Southern Moon,” “Eighteen Wheels,” well it just goes on, and track after track, they manage to conjure memories of the McReynolds brothers and Vern and Ray to name two. The supporting players add rich texture and a sophisticated aural support to the fine vocals. “Wayward Heart” builds until it nearly boils over as the instruments and voices are layered in making this track a minor masterpiece. Nearly half of the material is new or original, and all of it is strong.

This is true bluegrass, unadulterated by modern fashion or contemporary whim. The Crowe Brothers continue to present honest music for honest people. If you are a fan of true bluegrass, don’t miss this fine recording. (Rural Rhythm Records, P.O. Box 750, Mt. Juliet, TN 37121, www.ruralrhythm.com.) RCB