NEW RELEASES
(Received September 25-October24)

ACOUSTICURE: BLUEGRASS VAN
Gryllus Records GCD 073 (compact disc)

BACKUP TECHNIQUES ON THE FIVESTRING BANJO: BLUEGRASS BANJO METHOD BOOK THREE
JACK HATFIELD
Hatfield Music 9781892531070 (book)

SAM BUSH
CIRCLES AROUND ME
Sugar Hill Records
SUGCD4055 (compact disc)

JERRY BUTLER AND JOHN WADE
HAULIN’ GRASS
Blue Circle Records BCR019 (compact disc)

CHICAGO FOLK IMAGES OF THE SIXTIES MUSIC SCENE: THE PHOTOGRAPHS OF RAEBURN FLERLAGE
EDITED BY RONALD D. COHEN & BOB RIESMAN
ECWPress  9781550228731 (book)

STEVE MARTIN
THE CROW: NEW SONGS FOR THE FIVESTRING BANJO
BY STEVE MARTIN, TRANSCRIBED BY TONY TRISCHKA
Homespun 9781597732772 (book)

DETOUR
THE ROAD THAT LIES AHEAD
Bluegrass Ahead 0901 (compact disc)

JAKE DEWHIRST
SHADES OF GREY
No Label, No Number (compact disc)

DIXIE BEELINERS
SUSANVILLE
Pinecastle Records PRC #1171 (compact disc)

FOGGY MOUNTAIN HILTON
SHOW ME THE WAY TO GO HOME
Patuxent Records CD199 (compact disc)

CULLEN GALYEAN
BORN INTO BLUEGRASS, THE SONGS OF CULLEN GALYEAN
Mountain Roads Recordings MMR1007 (compact disc)

GRANDPA BANANA
I’LL DO ANYTHING FOR YOU
Grandpa Raccoon Records GR9683 (compact disc)

HANDPICKED BLUEGRASS
SWEET VIRGINIA
Bluegrass Lake Recordings BLR 2 (compact disc)

HANDS IN HARMONY: TRADITIONAL CRAFTS AND MUSIC IN APPALACHIA
BY TIM BARNWELL
Norton 978039306853 (book)

I HEAR A VOICE CALLING: A BLUEGRASS MEMOIR
BY GENE LOWINGER
Univ. of Illinois Press 9780252076633 (book)

CHRIS JONES & THE NIGHT DRIVERS
CLOUD OF DUST
GSM 102 (compact disc)

KING OF THE QUEEN CITY: THE STORY OF KING RECORDS
BY JON HARTLEY FOX
Univ. of Illinois Press 9780252034688 (book)

JIM LAUDERDALE
COULD WE GET ANY CLOSER
Sky Crunch Records, No Number (compact disc)

IAN MAIRS
GREEN EYED WOMEN
Hound Dog Records cd hdr 201 (compact disc)

MAN OF CONSTANT SORROW: MY LIFE AND TIMES
BY DR. RALPH STANLEY w/EDDIE DEAN
Gotham Books 9781592404254 (book)

MEL BAY PRESENTS: A GUIDE TO NONJAZZ IMPROVISATION, BANJO EDITION
BY DICK WEISSMAN & DAN FOX
Mel Bay MB20832BCD (book)

MEL BAY PRESENTS: A GUIDE TO NONJAZZ IMPROVISATION, GUITAR EDITION
BY DICK WEISSMAN & DAN FOX
Mel Bay MB20827BCD (book)

RUNAWAY FREIGHT
HILLBILLY BAILOUT
SwitchTrack Records CAT#8100 (compact disc)

KEITH SEWELL
THE WAY OF A WANDERER
Rubber Dog Records, No Number (compact disc)

SPRINGFIELD
CROSS OVER
Vocation Records SPG03 (compact disc)

TENNESSEE STUD
WHAT IF…
No Label, No Number (compact disc)

THE FIDDLE HANDBOOK
BY CHRIS HAIGH
Backbeat Books 9780879309787 (book)

CARL TOWNS & THE REMNANT
SONGS FROM MY CHILDHOOD, VOLUME ONE
DivinEx DE01CT010508 (compact disc)

TRIPLE L BAND
CROWN HIM KING
No Label, No Number (compact disc)

JIM VanCLEVE
BECOME A MORE COMPLETE FIDDLER
AcuTab Video DVD

VARIOUS ARTISTS
FRANCE BLUEGRASS (VOL.2)
No Label, No Number (compact disc)

STEVE WOOD AND THE JOHNSON CREEK DRIFTERS
A SHORT LIFE & ITS TROUBLES
No Label, NZ 051 (compact disc)

JAKE WORKMAN
ROCKY MOUNTAIN HIDEAWAY
No Label, No Number (compact disc)

BILL YATES & FRIENDS
COUNTRY GENTLEMEN TRIBUTE II
No Label, No Number (compact disc)

ADDITIONAL RELEASES
By Les McIntyre

BOBBY MAYNARD
LIVIN’ LOVIN’ LAUGHIN
Lamon Records, No Number.

Bobby Maynard is a well-established musician based in Huntington, W.Va. Although he is proficient on several instruments, the five-string banjo appears to be his favorite. This 13-song package is a well-constructed blending of established numbers such as “Cora Is Gone” and “Don’t Go Out Tonight” along with several of Bobby’s own creations. “Fifty Years” commemorates his parent’s golden wedding anniversary, while anyone who has ever struggled with an expanding waist line can certainly identify with the humor of “Weight (Wait) Problem.” Other noted performances include “The Last Time That Miner Went Down” inspired by the Saco Mine disaster and the instrumental “Nit PickNick.” “Livin’, Lovin’, Laughin’” runs the gamut of human emotions and a must-have for anyone familiar with the music of Bobby Maynard. (Lamon Records, P.O. Box 1907, Mt. Juliet, TN 37121, www.lamonrecords.com.)

GRASSAHOL
SHINE
Wall Holler Records, No Number.

Grassahol is a five-piece band consisting of Carl Yaffey (banjo), Chas Williams (fiddle), Heidi White (bass), Scott Brooks (mandolin), and Buren Carter (guitar). Their music pays homage to traditional values, while incorporating a sizeable dose of originality. With the exception of Hazel Dickens’ “West Virginia, My Home,” the other 12 selections were penned by bandmembers Chas, Heidi, Scott, and Carl. Titles included are “Disappearing Railroad Blues,” “When Our House Burns Down,” “A Thousand Years,” and the instrumental “Three Wheelin’.” “Joy Shine” is original contemporary bluegrass at its finest and certain to draw attention to Grassahol. (Wall Holler Records, 435 Walhalla Rd., Columbus OH 43202, www.grassahol.com.)

THE ORIGINAL ROCKRIDGE BROTHERS
ROCKRIDGE HOLLERIN
Red Rocking Recordings TRRB 004

Here is a rather unique group, an old-time string band from Sweden. In reality, the Rockridge Brothers are Pontus Juth (bass), Peter Frovik (guitar), Kristian Herner (banjo), and Ralf Fredblad (fiddle). The 17 selections are mostly well-established traditional classics like “Rocky Island,” “Darlin’ Corey,” “Cumberland Gap,” and others, all performed with gusto and enthusiasm. Other performances include “Lazy John,” “Chilly Winds,” and “Big Eyed Rabbit.” “Rockridge Hollerin’” is foot-tapping old-time string band music that has captured the essence of just what old-time music is all about. (Pontus Juth, Rosenlundsgatan, 30B 118 53 Stockholm, Sweden, www.rockridgebrothers.com.)

VARIOUS ARTISTS
NORTH TO ONTARIO 2009
No Label, No Number.

This is the fourth release in the “North To Ontario” series and again features a series of excellent recordings performed by various Canadian bluegrass groups. The 18 selections feature Lazy John (“Hard At The Bottom”), Pam Brooks & Lonesome Wind (“Month Of Sundays”), Canucky Bluegrass Boys (“Standin’ Up”), Prairie Siding (“1950 Studebaker”), Scotia Junction (“There Used To Be A Train”), and others. Closing out the disc is country artist Bill Devries performing an emotional arrangement of the Fred Rose classic, “Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain.” Sadly, Mr. Devries passed away shortly after this recording was made and the CD is dedicated to his memory. “North To Ontario, 2009” is another fine addition to a series that has introduced many wonderful Canadian bluegrass groups to a much wider audience. Hopefully, these releases will remain an annual event. (Athlone Studios, RR 3, Everett, ON, Canada L0M 1J0, e-mail: ggouthro@gendon.com.)

KELLIE ALLEN & PETE PETERSON
I’LL NEVER FORSAKE YOU
Lutra Records LUT-CD-9001

Kellie Allen (guitar and vocals) and Pete Peterson (guitar, banjo, and vocals) are a popular duo in the Pacific Northwest. They also perform regularly with groups like Orpheus Supertones (BU, July ’06) and Waking Up Tillie (BU, Nov. ’05). This 17-song package features material from a multitude of sources including the Monroe Brothers (“Forgotten Soldier Boy”), George Jones (“Flame In My Heart”), Charlie Poole (“There’ll Come A Time”), and others. “I’ll Never Forsake You” is a thoroughly entertaining endeavor that should please anyone searching for sincere harmony singing that pays homage to traditional values. (Lutra Records Oxford, PA 19363, myspace.com/kellieandpete)

GLEN SIMPSON
PLAYIN’ IN THE HILLS
Tomato Gravy Records TG007

Glen Simpson is an accomplished musician based in eastern Kentucky. “Playin’ In The Hills” is his seventh recording project and consists primarily of original compositions that reflect his deep Appalachian roots. Glen’s style can best be described as mountain style with subtle bluegrass overtones. Through the magic of overdubbing, he performs the majority of the instrumental and vocal parts. The 14 selections are a mixture of traditional pieces and original numbers including “Blackberry Pickin’ Time,” “Sourwood Mountain,” “Dinner Table,” and the whimsical “Onion Breath.” Also featured is a unique rendition of “Handsome Molly” performed in a minor key. “Playin’ In The Hills” is a pleasant offering of traditional mountain music sure to find favor with anyone familiar with the music of Glen Simpson. (Tomato Gravy Music, 1654 Mudlick Rd, Hardy, KY 41531, www.glen-simpson.com)

DEADWOOD REVIVAL
SAT 730
No Label or Number

Deadwood Revival started out several years ago as the duo of Kim Trenerry (guitar and vocals) and Jason Mogi (banjo, guitar, and vocals). Later bassist, Ches Ferguson, and fiddler Julie Campbell were added to the mix. The result is an eclectic brand of music that defies classification in that it blends elements of bluegrass, old-time, jazz, and even elements of punk rock. These tracks were recorded at several live appearances around their home base, Port Angeles, Wash. The 14 selections combine familiar pieces like “Red Rocking Chair,” “Cotton Eyed Joe,” and Johnny Cash’s “Big River,” along with the band’s own numbers, “Ain’t The Buyin’ Kind,” “That’s Alright,” and the 11-minute instrumental medley “Mattie’s Jam”/”Shake The Barnhouse Down.” The music of Deadwood Revival is probably best experienced at one of their live performances, although this disc would certainly serve as an acceptable alternative. (Carol Pope, P.O. Box 3161, Port Angeles, WA 98362, www.deadwoodrevival.com.)

BRAD WOOD & FRIENDS
FOR A REASON
Cotton Top Records CTR-52507

This latest release from Brad Wood (guitar, mandolin, bass, and lead vocals) is an all-gospel project with established numbers such as “Rank Stranger,” “God Sent An Angel,” and “How Beautiful Heaven Must Be,” along with Brad’s own compositions “Big River Of Life,” “Grandpa’s Song,” and “Beyond The Pearly Gate.” Besides providing all the lead vocals, he also plays a number of instruments throughout the proceedings. Also assisting in the productions are several guest pickers including Terry Baucom (banjo) and Darrel Webb (harmony vocals). “For A Reason” is a well-conceived gospel project that should find a ready audience with those who demand sincerity in their music. (Brad Wood, 621 Drywall Rd., State Road, NC 28676, myspace.com/bradwoodbluegrass.)

ON THE EDGE

PHIL ROSENTHAL
A TREASURY OF BLUEGRASS AND COUNTRY SONGS
American Melody AM-CD-5125

Many readers will remember Phil Rosenthal as a member of Apple Country and the Seldom Scene. In this latest recording, he is joined by a host of musicians including Stacy Phillips (resonator guitar), along with several family members including son Daniel (trumpet and vocals). The 17 selections are ballads and parlor songs such as “Camptown Races,” ”Golden Slippers,” “Arkansas Traveller,” and others. Also featured are several of Phil’s own compositions including “Muddy Water” and the instrumental “Three Mandolins.” The performances are all good with a laid-back attitude. “A Treasury Of Bluegrass And Country Songs” is enjoyable and highlights the multiple talents of Phil Rosenthal. (American Melody, P.O. Box 270, Guilford, CT 06437, www.americanmelody.com.)

COMPILATIONS AND REISSUES

DARREN BEACHLEY
SAD SONGS & SUNDAY MORNINGS
MasterShield Records, no number

Compiled from two earlier solo projects (“Remembrances” and “I Love You To The Moon And Back”). Musicians include Mike Auldridge, Mike Munford, and Rickie Simpkins. Songs include “Journey’s End,” “Daddy’s Chair,” and “Coal Miner’s Dream.” (MasterShield Records, 6683 Vista Heights Rd., Bridgewater, VA 22812, www.mastershieldrecords.com.)

RALPH STANLEY AND THE CLINCH MOUNTAIN BOYS FEATURING CHARLIE SIZEMORE
CAN’T YOU HEAR THE MOUNTAINS CALLING
Rounder 11661-0614-2

Originally released as a cassette in 1986, then as a CD on Copper Creek in 1995. Both titled “16 Years.” Recorded circa 1981. Musicians include Curly Ray Cline, Jack Cooke, and Junior Blankenship. Liner notes by Marian Leighton Levy and Charlie Sizemore. (Charlie’s are exceptional and personal.) Songs include “Won’t You Be Mine,” “In Despair,” and “This Weary Heart You Stole Away.” (Rounder Records, One Rounder Way, Burlington, MA 01803, www.rounder.com.)

VARIOUS ARTISTS
GRASSROOTS TO BLUEGRASS COLLECTION
No Label, No Number.

Ten-volume VHS or DVD series of live stories and music. Conversations facilitated by Mac Wiseman. Artists include the Osborne Brothers, John Hartford, Jeanette Carter, Patsy Stoneman, and Mike Seeger. Ten hours of over sixty songs. (Gabriel Communications, 916 Harpeth Valley Pl., Nashville, TN 37221, www.cfrvideos.com.)

INSTRUCTIONAL

SOLDIER’S JOY AND OTHER BANJO FAVORITES
Mel Bay MB22031DVD

Taught by Murphy Henry. Two-hour banjo DVD. Teaches five songs including “Liberty,” “Farewell Blues,” and “Old Spinning Wheel.” All songs taught by ear. (Mel Bay Publications, #4 Industrial Dr., Pacific, MO 63069, www.melbay.com).

STEVE KAUFMAN TEACHES CROWD PLEASERS AND SHOW STOPPERS: STEVE’S FAVORITE FLATPICKING GUITAR INSTRUMENTALS
Homespun DVDKAUSS21.

One DVD, 90 min., 27-page booklet on disc, $29.95. (Homespun, P.O. Box 340, Woodstock, NY 12498, www.homespun.com.)

Steve Kaufman is one of the better teachers at enabling us to at least try to play bluegrass flatpicking guitar. This DVD might give you the impression that it’s only for advanced players, but there are some good fundamental lessons on crosspicking and tone production here that makes it accessible and essential for players of all levels.

Tunes taught are “Interstate Rag,” “First Century Reel,” “Maid Behind The Bar,” “Sligo Girl,” “House Of The Rising Sun,” “Beaumont Rag,” “Black Mountain Rag,” “Festival Waltz,” “Calgary Polka,” and “Last Thing On My Mind.” Only a few of those are commonly played, so it would add variety to your repertoire to tackle something like “Maid Behind The Bar” from the Celtic tradition.

Kaufman divides the DVD into sections of teaching each tune and a performance so you can get an idea of the up-to-tempo playing. His style is clean, communicative, and interesting, and his teaching style is personable and relaxed. If you want some challenging tunes to tackle over the winter, or just want to study how a master flatpicker handles various styles, this is a great DVD to have.
Homespun DVDs are always well recorded with superb sound, lighting, and dual camera angles for right and left hands, and this includes a 27-page PDF booklet of tab for all the songs on the DVD. Recommended.CVS