I haven't said much here about my burgeoning love of bluegrass (or maybe I have)--so I'll say it: I'm starting to really dig bluegrass--especially from more contemporary artists.
One of the most amazing musicians in the genre is Chris Thile. Formerly of Nickel Creek, Chris (who plays mandolin) currently heads the amazing, progressive, pseudo-classical "Punch Brothers." I got to see them play last week and was completely blown away. This is not your typical pop group. These dudes are consummate musicians.
Here is just a little taste of the show:
"The Eleventh Hour"
Ah, Jon. So good to see you nearing the purer faith! I have loved bluegrass for many years. Not, however the old Ralph Stanley whiny stuff. More like what you show here, Ricky Skaggs, Allison Krauss, etc. Sort of like comparing jazz and jazz fusion. I like songs that have a recognizable bridge, a singable and/or whistleable melody. But I find that most bluegrass is just lyrics sung until the next wildly virtuostic solo is up. But I love it just the same. Just don't ask me to "take it" when the guitar solo is up! I am content to just strum and smile.
ReplyDelete