From Amazon.com
Lovely album, mostly
Album Rating: (4 of 5 stars)
Review Comments: I'll get straight to the point. For the most part this is a sweetly-played gem of an album. There are 9 listed tracks and 1 unlisted mandolin solo by Matt Flinner. Most of these tunes are terrific, and beautifully performed. Bravo! The tones of David Grier's guitar are especially noteworthy. What beautiful tones Mr.Grier! If you're reading this review there's probably no need for me to tell you what the playing is like, but I'll tell you anyway - it's simply wonderful throughout.
Why only 4 stars and not 5? For my tastes, the covers of 'Little Wing' by Jimi Hendrix, and 'I Want You (She's So Heavy)' by The Beatles are a bit disappointing, and I enjoyed these 2 tracks less than the others. I know these guys pretty well, having Matt Flinner's albums, and some of David Grier's; and of course Todd Phillips plays on all of them. It may seem odd to be criticizing the musical vision of these great players, but these 2 tunes just don't work for me; especially the Beatles tune. I would welcome more instrumentation in this situation. A guest spot or two from people like Stuart Duncan or Jerry Douglas, etc. would be a welcome addition on these 2 tunes. For me these trio versions are too laid back. They lack fire and conviction.
Everything else is really nice; in fact, almost too nice! Matt Flinner and Todd Phillips are great players, and they're fine here - be in no doubt, but I think it's David Grier who saves the day with his amazingly creative guitar work. Without his inventive and fascinating playing, monotony might soon have been knocking at the door.
Purchases
1 Tennessee Blues
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