Compass Records has announced that Larry Stephenson has signed a multi-album deal with the label, and will begin work in October on a new project for a 2012 release. He will be working at Compass’ studio in Nashville, with Ben Suratt helming the controls, and co-producing with Larry.
Stephenson was one of the many artists left in the lurch when Pinecastle closed up shop in February 2010. His most recent album, 20th Anniversary, had been slated for the street that month. It was released on schedule, but on his private label.
Larry tells us that he and the band have had a few rehearsals, working up material, and are eager to get started on the new record.
“I am really looking forward to working with Compass.
You know, this deal really just sort of happened. I ran into [Compass President] Alison Brown at IBMA last year and we got to talking. With Pinecastle having folded, there was a lot of confusion, and she told me to come meet with them. So I did, and here we are.
I love Tom Riggs and Pinecastle Records, but it felt like it was time for a change. Compass being here in Nashville where I am was a plus. And they have been moving successfully into bluegrass recently, with great albums from Peter Rowan, The Gibson Brothers and Dale Ann Bradley.
Tom Riggs has done so much for me personally and professionally, and I hate that his health forced him to step down. He was the best.”
Larry said that he will be recording with his band, and may bring in a guest fiddler when they track. Kenny Ingram is on banjo, Kevin Richardson on guitar, Danny Stewart on bass, and Stephenson on mandolin and lead vocals.
