NewTown

NEWTOWN
No Label
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NewTown is the self-titled, first offering from this Lexington, Ky., band. The group features veterans Kati Penn-Williams (Dale Ann Bradley Band) and former NewFound Road founding member Junior Williams. With solid efforts from the Williams, as well as C.J. Cain on guitar, James Kee on mandolin and Terry Poirier on bass, NewTown is sure to find its place among fans of such groups as NewFound Road, the now defunct Cadillac Sky, the Infamous Stringdusters, et al—a more contemporary bluegrass style.

Standout cuts on the album begin with a nice take on “Angeline The Baker” called “Angelita.” “Cold Iron Door” would be a solid pick for a single release to gather appeal on the airwaves. The group’s gospel offering “The Stone Was Rolled Away” does tip to the traditional with solid harmonies and “Flora, Lily Of The West” certainly has Junior’s stamp all over it. (NewTown, P.O. Box 23238, Lexington, KY, 43523, www.thenewtownband.com) MB