Flatpicking Bluegrass is the latest CD from FGM Records, the label branch of Flatpicking Guitar Magazine. The CD features 12 flatpicking masters on 12 traditional bluegrass numbers. These are all vocal tunes, no instrumentals here. According to Dan Miller, publisher of FGM, the goal of the recording was to highlight the role that can be played by lead guitar in a strictly vocal, bluegrass setting.
While many still think of “flatpicking” the guitar as taking solos on fiddle tunes, the flatpickers on this recording are here to show you that the guitar also has something to say on traditional bluegrass vocal tunes.
The majority of the tracks were recorded in Nashville, and the band remains the same on each song with the exception of the guitar player/lead singer, and the occasional harmony vocalist.
The back up band includes Shad Cobb on fiddle, Charlie Chadwick on bass, Chris Joslin on Dobro and banjo, and Dave Harvey on mandolin. Tim May and Brad Davis provide harmony vocals on most tunes, although others also sing harmony on select tunes.
The line up of guitar players is impressive, as is the song list of traditional tunes.
- My Home’s Across The Blue Ridge Mountains – Steven Mougin
- East Virginia Blues – John Chapman
- Six White Horses – Jeff White
- When The Golden Leaves Begin To Fall – Jim Hurst
- Long Journey Home – Josh Williams
- I’ll Stay Around – Tim Stafford
- Banks Of The Ohio – Brad Davis
- Why Don’t You Tell Me So – Richard Bennett
- In The Pines – Chris Jones
- Teardrops In My Eyes – Jim Nunally
- Gone Home – Tim May
- Air Mail Special On The Fly – Kenny Smith
The consistency of the band from track to track lends a unity to the disc, which, when paired with the diversity of vocal and guitar styles represented, results in a very pleasant and interesting 40 minutes of music.
Choosing a favorite track would be nearly impossible. Each player brings a unique approach that distinguishes each track from the others. There is something to be appreciated and enjoyed from each recording.
Fans of both flatpicking guitar and traditional bluegrass should equally enjoy this CD. If you happen to be a fan of both, Flatpicking Bluegrass is custom made for you!
