Edgar Loudermilk – Roads Travelled

EDGAR LOUDERMILK
ROADS TRAVELLED
Mountain Fever Records
MFR110111

This debut solo recording by IIIrd Tyme Out bassist is an enjoyable program of songs that include duets with many bluegrass stars.

The title track features Marty Raybon, “One’s In My Heart.” “Can’t Live Life” features former boss, Rhonda Vincent, and current boss Russell Moore is featured on “Loser’s Hand” and “Skies In Summer Rain.” One of the nicest duets on this fine set of songs is the one with Cia Cherryholmes on “It Just Might.” Loudermilk’s tenor makes him a good pairing with female vocalists, but all of the vocals are well done, even the ones where he sings all of the parts himself.

Accompanying these vocals we have the some darn good musicians. Tim Crouch’s fiddle is spot-on and sweet and searing at turns. Randy Kohrs does his thing, weaving his resonator guitar into tapestry. Ashby Frank plays almost too fast to hear and then slow and sweet. Scott Haas does a fine job on banjo and, of course, Loudermilk ties it all down with his bass.

If you like your bluegrass with a contemporary edge but with a healthy respect for the tradition, look no further. This is a fine set of well-sung and well-played bluegrass. While there are no instrumentals, this set is full of instrumental highlights. It is an outstanding first recording from a young artist who is bound to make his mark as he works at his chosen craft. (Mountain Fever Records, 1177 Alum Ridge Rd. NW, Willis, VA 24380, www.mountainfever.com.)RCB