Kentucky Old Time Banjo - Various Artists

Advantages: Different and very engaging
Disadvantages: Only 11 tracks!

...Some years ago, a friend who knows I like to push the boundaries of my musical tastes lent me a cassette (yes, it was that long ago!) that featured a collection of bluegrass artists, with some instrumentals included. To my surprise, I loved most of the tracks, especially those featuring the likes of Alison Krause and also The Cox Family. When the film "O Brother Where Art Thou?" was released, I was pleased to hear music by both used as part of the soundtrack. As things do happen, though, I didn't follow up my 'discoveries' until recently and the acquisition of the CD "Stolen Moments", by accomplished and acclaimed banjo player Alison Brown. A banjo player? You might think I've gone off my head - visions of George Formby singing "When I'm Cleaning Windows" no doubt immediately spring to mind. Well, you'd be wrong, since this album... Read review

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Advantages: One of the most amazing voices ever.
Disadvantages: umm.. that there isn't more?

...Has anyone ever listened to much in the way of Bluegrass music before? I'm going through a little phase, and have recently bought some DVDs through Amazon which I'm really enjoying. For those interested, the term 'Bluegrass' is used to describe traditional or 'roots' music of america, largely unchanged over time through the oral traditions of the rural and country people who developed this music as a reflection of their daily life. A lot of the music is quite depressing but very soulful and some beautiful arrangements just using the basic instruments of banjo, fiddle, bass, voices and the Dobro or resonating (we tend to think of it as a 'steel') guitar. Its a different, more spare style of country music. Of course, some is crap, and some is mundane, like any style, but I like to explore and find out what I like in a whole range... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful

Advantages: Easy listening, Thought provoking lyrics, Outstanding Singles
Disadvantages: Not one for the pop generation

...to be discovered here. Stream of Whiskey, Sally MacLennane, Old Main Drag and Sick Bed Of Cuchulainn all recount stories of drink. From the bad to the good, the joy to the pain, the lyrics within these tunes are excellent. Old Main Drag is a particular highlight as it slowly recounts the awful effects of drink addiction on a young mans life. Stream of Whiskey, Sally MacLennane and Sick Bed Of Cuhulainn all recount the lighter side of the effects of drink through the upbeat tone of the banjo and tin whistle. The song that I personally did not like was Fiesta. It detracts from the main theme of the album and break up the pattern of listening. It's simply too loud and is lyrically nowhere near the best that Shane can produce. This is all forgotten once you take the time to listen to songs such as If I Should Fall From The Grace Of God, Hell's Ditch... Read review

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