VOLUME FIVE, FOR THOSE WHO CARE TO LISTEN

VOLUME FIVE
FOR THOSE WHO CARE TO LISTEN

Mountain Fever MFR191025

   This is Volume Five’s first recording since Adam Steffey joined on mandolin. When Steffey joined, Jacob Burleson moved from mandolin to guitar, and his guitar playing is fine with strong rhythm and expressive, but not excessive leads. Steffey does not sing on this project, but the band is rich in baritone vocalists. The remainder of the band is the same, and the sound is only richer for adding the stalwart new member. Fans of the band already know how good they are and will only be pleased with the sound on this project.

Great songs abound, such as “Today I Get My Gold Watch And Chain,” “Song For Jack,” and “The Army Vet.” The singing and picking are what we’ve all come to expect from this fine band. Jeff Partin excels on bass and resonator guitar. His lead on “Somewhere” is spot on and his tenor completes the strong trio that is a big part of this band’s sound. All of the bandmembers are in fine fettle and their performances reflect it.

This is some of the best contemporary bluegrass to come out lately. They are bound for even greater things if this project is any indication. Top-notch music with fine singing and creative picking. The contemplative songs on this somewhat introspective collection set the stage for a more mellow blend of ’grass with enough punch in the other numbers to keep it real. Fine material that’s well-played make this a don’t-miss collection.(Mountain Fever, 1177 Alum Ridge Rd. NW, Willis, VA 24380, www.mountainfever.com.)RCB