|
Various Bluegrass, Blues and
Jazz Albums
Review By Steven Stone
Click here to e-mail reviewer
Sarah Bettens
Never Say Goodbye
In addition to her androgynous good looks, God blessed Sarah Bettens with an arresting voice and copious amounts of musical talent. This CD combines studio cuts with live performances. Her covers of "Cry Me a River" and "I Can't Make You Love Me" rank among the best I've heard. She also plays a mean bass guitar.
Enjoyment: 
Sound: 
Brandon Rickman
Young Man, Old Soul
Lonesome River Band's lead singer and guitarist's first solo album highlights his special musical talents. In addition to playing most of the lead and backing guitar, Rickman also handles the mandolin parts. Guests include Randy Kohrs on dobro, JeneeFleenor on fiddle, and Larry Cordle on harmony vocals.
Enjoyment:
Sound:
The Wailin' Jennys
Live at the Mauch Chunk Opera House
On their first live CD the Wailin' Jennys display their flair for popularizing traditional folk material. Songs such as "Motherless Child" and "Bring Me a Li'l Water Silvy" sound fresh and exciting in their hands. Joined by their newest member, Heather Masse, as well as accomplished sideman Jeremy Penner on violin and fiddle, The Wailin' Jennys deliver over an hour of first-class music.
Enjoyment:
Sound:
Lou Reid & Carolina
My Own Set of Rules
Lou Reid is among bluegrass's preeminent vocalists. His latest release demonstrates why. Leading his quartet through thirteen tunes Reid serves up both classic vocals and hot mandolin solos. Guest artist Ron Stewart adds fiddle parts, but the band's tight harmony vocals and precise arrangements are the shining stars here.
Enjoyment:
Sound:
|
