Over the past seven weeks, we have brought you a series of videos from The Roys, chronicling each of the seven tracks on their new album, New Day Dawning. The album has now hit shelves, showcasing Lee and Elaine Roy’s smooth, enjoyable brand of modern, country-influenced bluegrass.
Lee and Elaine are credited with writing or co-writing all of the songs on the album, an impressive feat for a new group. The majority of the songs are reflective, speaking of family and cherished memories. Daddy to Me and Grandpa’s Barn are both peaceful-sounding tunes featuring Lee on lead vocals which recall times spent with two of the most important men in the singer’s life. Many listeners can identify with the hurt of losing of a loved one, but instead of choosing to dwell on the pain of the experience, these songs reminisce in vivid detail about good times spent with a father or grandfather.
Windin’ Roads is another track about family, but from a somewhat different perspective. It tells the familiar story of someone who left home, only to realize that’s where they truly belonged. Elaine takes the lead on Living Scrapbook, a track with an Alison Krauss sound that compares memories to pictures on a wall.
The remainder of the songs offer a positive, uplifting outlook on life. Fast as We Roll is a nice mid-tempo piece which speaks of taking time to enjoy life. Still Standing is among the most traditional sounding songs on the album, while the title track has more of a country feel, but both promise hope at the end of hard times.
The Roys have put together an accomplished set of musicians to accompany them on this album, creating a tight, modern sound: Andy Leftwich (mandolin and fiddle), Mark Fain (bass), Cody Kilby (guitar), Justin Moses (banjo), and Randy Kohrs (dobro). They are also joined by Steve Brewster (percussion), Luke Skaggs (baritone guitar), and Jeff Taylor (accordion) on several tracks to create a more country sound.
The Roys made a good impression on the bluegrass and country music worlds with their major label debut Lonesome Whistle, which debuted at number seven on the Billboard charts and had two singles chart, as well. With seven memorable songs, New Day Dawning is set to continue in that pattern.
For more information on The Roys and their new album, visit www.theroysonline.com.
New Day Dawning is available from their website, as well as iTunes, Amazon, and music stores.
