Take a ride on that Old School train.
Posted by Hello

THE ALBUM:
“Run”
Old School Freight Train
(Acoustic Disc, ACD-61)
On the web: www.osft.net

This quintet takes the bluegrass format (fiddle, mandolin, 5-string banjo, bass and vocals) to territory charted by Dawg and Bela Fleck. In fact, “Run” is a 12-song CD from David Grisman’s Acoustic Disc label, and if that isn’t a recommendation, what is?
While the band members write, there are also songs from Stevie Wonder (”Superstition”) and Randy Newman (”Louisiana 1927″). Sparkling mandolin, throaty banjo and a thoughtful groove. “Lookee here” is a fine instrumental and the jazzy “Dance” says it all. These guys will be at the Purple Fiddle in Thomas on June 25, so mark your calendar. Available online at www.acousticdisc.com, or from Acoustic Disc, P.O. Box 4143 San Rafael, CA.
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THE CD: “Fast As Time Can Take Me”
Troublesome Creek String Band
CO-CD2738

Judging by the liner notes, this quartet knows everybody on the old-time music festival scene. Their super tight arrangements, drive and repertoire reflect this, with many songs learned from other old-time musicians. These guys respect the past, but add their own thing. Some nice out-of-the-way tunes can be found here, such as “Sweet Marie,” from Kentucky and Carter Family gems like “River of Jordan.” Good playing. Available from County Records, P.O. Box 7405 Charlottesville, Va. 22906.

– Paul Gartner

THE CD:“The Right Hand Fork of Rush’s Creek: Old Time Fiddling by Wilson Douglas”
Rounder 82161-0047-2

Rounder Records has reissued a 1974 album of music from the late Clay County musician Wilson Douglas, with nine additional tracks not found on the original release. The CD also includes, in a PDF format, the original liner notes, a biography, notes from reissue producer Mark Wilson and vintage photos provided by Douglas’ longtime banjo player, Kim Johnson. These are a fine complement to Douglas’ squirrely, bittersweet music.

Douglas was not happy with this album — he had to record with two musicians he had never played with before. Whatever reservations he had are made up for by the powerful music. It sure is good to hear Douglas’ vigorous bowing on “Cotton-Eyed Joe,” “Cumberland Gap” and “West Fork Gals.” The solo fiddle cuts are superb. Highly recommended, and good for what ails you!

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THE ALBUM” “Benny Thomasson: Legendary Texas Fiddler Recordings from 1966-1969 County Records” CO-CD-2737

These tunes were recorded by the Texas fiddling legend in the 1960s. Thomasson, who died in January 1984, really swings on “Don’t Let Your Deal Go Down.” “Hell Among the Yearlings” displays rich fiddle tone. Something he shares with Kessinger (and all great soloists) is how well thought out and seemingly spontaneous the arrangements are. Available from County Records, P.O. Box 7405 Charlottesville, Va. 22906.

– Paul Gartner