Patuxent Music has released an album from noted mandolinist, Akira Otsuka, entitled First Tear.
Joining the former Bluegrass 45 mando man are Tony Rice, Kenny Smith, Phil Rosenthal, Chris Stifel, Al Petteway and David Grier on guitar; Rickie Simpkins, Phil Bloch and Janice Martin on fiddle; Eddie Adcock and Mike Munford on banjo; Jason Moore, Tom Gray, Fred Smith and Johnny Castle on bass; and Chris Stifel, Rick Watson and Josh Otsuka on vocals.
Fans of 1970s bluegrass surely remember Japan’s Bluegrass 45 for their strong musical chops and hilarious stage antics. Since the 45 ended, Akira has become a fixture in the DC bluegrass scene, and a sought-after session player on banjo, guitar and bass in addition to mandolin.
Amazingly enough following such a lengthy musical career, First Tear is his debut solo project.
We will do a more thorough review of this highly-anticipated album as soon as we get a copy.
