Old School Freight Train & Troublesome Creek
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.
—
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
