Why Live Without
This four-piece group from Northern Ireland consists of three siblings and a husband. The siblings are Tabitha Benedict (née Agnew) who plays banjo, Benjamin Agnew on bass and Reuben Agnew on guitar. They are joined by Tabitha’s husband David Benedict who plays mandolin. The group has traveled throughout their native Ireland, the UK and mainland Europe. The group has also showcased at the IBMA convention in Raleigh, North Carolina. They are known for their progressive bluegrass approach with tight sibling harmonies and pleasant vocals, in addition to their solid instrumental skills.
This project features all-original material composed by the band members. These selections include “Weathered And Warm,” “Azazel’s Escape,” “Lamb,” “Hard Life,” “Be True To You,” “Navigator,” “City” and “Lightning.” The group also included their arrangement of the old gospel folk song, “The Old Church Yard.”
This is a group of very good musicians on bass, mandolin, guitar and especially Tabitha’s skill on both three-finger and clawhammer-style banjo. She also has a haunting vocal delivery. The instrumental cut “Azazel’s Escape” shows just how good all these players are. Good playing, good arrangements, and good vocals and harmony on these good songs makes this international quartet a must listen.
