The opinions expressed are solely mine and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the KVMR MD, PD, PC, staff, management, underwriters, Board of Directors, hangers-on or passers-by.

Your Reviewers:
Dennis = Dennis Brunnenmeyer
DJ = Don Jacobson

Folk 'N Review is not published with any KVMR funds. Constructive criticism, contrary opinions, humor and suggestions welcome for publication.

You can have Folk 'N Review delivered every once in a while to your KVMR mail box or e-mail box. Leave a message in my KVMR mail box or send an e-mail to me at: donj@infostations.net.

The tracks on this CD cross numerous genres, including bluegrass, pop country, and folk. The lead performers, Warren Amberson and Kelly Green, are very talented musicians, songwriters and darned good vocalists. Experiment with several tracks to see for yourself.
Dennis Brunnenmeyer - June 5, 2002

This CD is another great traditional-sounding release from Sugar Hill. I like all of the tracks except for track #1, which seems a little weak. Track #13 uses the word “colored” as a reference to a black man---traditionally correct but socially sensitive.
Dennis Brunnenmeyer June 5, 2002

The title of this CD is a little misleading. I expected chamber music in a classical vein but found progressive renditions of traditional and bluegrass instrumental instead. What an exceptional treat!
Dennis Brunnenmeyer June 5, 2002

This is a nice collection of popular tunes performed by mostly well-known artists. The recordings are taken from other Rounder and Flying Fish projects, so there’s really nothing new here.
Dennis Brunnenmeyer, June 4, 2002

This otherwise great CD is a cheap trick marketing ploy obviously intended to take advantage of the popularity of the movie and soundtrack titled O Brother, Where Art Thou? The CD’s color scheme, the photography and the title of the CD are surely meant to fool the average shopper into thinking that this release is a ‘bona fide’ derivative of the movie soundtrack. Only the first three songs were in the movie---the rest of the tracks are of a similar genre and are worth serious attention. What kept this CD out of the dustbin is the excellent music on the disc.
Dennis Brunnenmeyer June 4, 2002

It’s refreshing to listen to Doyle Lawson’s latest release, especially since it is NOT a gospel project---his all too frequent fare. Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver always put on a good performance. This release is no exception. It’s an excellent collection of traditional bluegrass styles.
Dennis Brunnenmeyer June 5, 2002

Ernie Thacker is a relatively new guy on the bluegrass block. In this initial offering, he lays the foundation for a terrific future as an up and coming bluegrass vocalist and instrumentalist. Dan Tyminski, Rob Ickes, Adam Steffey, Ronnie Bowman, Ben Isaacs, Steve Gulley and Ron Stewart provide excellent backup work and fine vocal support, a fitting testimony to the quality of this recording.
Dennis Brunnenmeyer - April 9, 2002

Hey, this is pretty good, in spite of the old man’s somewhat rusty voice and crusty personality. My favorite tracks include tracks 1, 4, 6 and 12.
Dennis Brunnenmeyer May 3, 2002

This is Frank’s first release and, judging from the quality of the music in this project, it won’t be the last. He wrote all but two of the songs on this CD, and they’re every bit as nice as the instrumental and vocal work. All in all, it’s a worthy album deserving plenty of airtime on KVMR.
Dennis Brunnenmeyer June 5, 2002

Not really a bluegrass release, there’s still no better place to file it than under the bluegrass heading. As usual, the Master of the resophonic guitar excels on this release. There’s little more one can say, other than "Enjoy!"
Reviewer date

Although relatively unknown nationwide, Josh Williams, at a mere 21 years of age, is bound to become one of the top bluegrass stars of tomorrow. Perhaps he’s already there, as this fine recording of traditional style bluegrass is one of my very favorites. An accomplished instrumentalist, Josh breaks new ground by proving that he can sing as well as he can play, and that’s saying a lot. As a testimony to his skill and reputation, the all-star cast of musicians on this recording includes such notables as JD Crowe, Aubrey Haynie, Jim Hurst, David Parmley, Missy Raines, Don Rigsby, Sammy Shelor, Ron Stewart and Chris Thile. This CD may be hard to find in your local shop, but it’s worth the effort to look for it.
Dennis Brunnenmeyer - 02/21/2002

This CD spotlights one of bluegrass music’s great fiddlers---Kenny Baker---the mainstay of Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys for many years. Fortunately, no babies were injured during the making of this wonderful instrumental collection.
Dennis Brunnenmeyer June 4, 2002

Why there are four guys in this trio is beyond me. Nonetheless, this is a nice collection of old-fashioned country gospel music in the bluegrass style.
Dennis Brunnenmeyer

With first names like Clint, Jimbo, Sonny, and Kipper, you know it’s likely to be the real thing. This one certainly is-it’s pure bluegrass through and through. Pretty nice vocals on most tracks, but it’s the instrumental work that makes it all worthwhile-give it a try.
Dennis Brunnenmeyer, May 16, 2002

This group is comprised of Bill Chapman and three of his sons-John, Jeremy and Jason. The unique harmonies that often materialize when family members sing together are certainly evident on this nice release. John Chapman’s excellent lead vocal work and his fine quitar work are showcased throughout this CD. I can’t say enough abut the other family members and the support work from Stuart Duncan-they too provide excellent support. My favorite tracks are #1 (Losing Again) and #9 (I’m Going Back to Old Kentucky). Track #5 (Candy Kisses) is the only cut on this CD that deviates from the traditional bluegrass sound, but even that one is very well done.
Dennis Brunnenmeyer - April 17, 2002

This is a wonderful collection of mostly traditional and older country-style gospel music. Where this group gets its name is beyond me, but the execution of this music is tasteful and lovely to say the least. Unfortunately, it probably won’t get the exposure it deserves on KVMR. I hope I’m wrong about this.
Dennis Brunnenmeyer June 4, 2002

Beth and her sister April step out on this, their second album, with a bold new Nashville-friendly sound. Although I prefer the more conservative sound of their first release, Sisters, I like this CD very much and would recommend it to anyone-especially to a Kelly Willis fan. Like other groups comprised of siblings that grew up in a music-centric home, their innate synergy and talent shows itself in a big way on this release. The ladies get help from some big names, too, including Dolly Parton, Sam Bush, Rob Ickes, Mike Henderson and Bobby Hicks. Even their father, Douglas Stevens, lends a helping hand. I’ve been looking forward to this release for several years, and I’m not at all disappointed! You won’t be, either.
Dennis Brunnenmeyer, May 13, 2002

This is a good collection of releases by contemporary artists from the Rounder collection. There are 22 tracks on this CD, and nearly all, except for tracks 14 and 15, are more than worthy of KVMR airplay. Note: This CD is part of a two CD release from Rounder Records. The companion CD is titled True Bluegrass and features a number of less known artists in addition to contemporary headliners performing traditional bluegrass songs.
Dennis Brunnenmeyer - April 14, 2002

This is a collection of bluegrass and mountain (read “folk”) songs performed by a wide variety of Rounder’s artists. All but one of the songs were previously released, so once again, there’s very little that’s new here from Rounder Records. But still, it’s a nice collection of songs about Mom.
Dennis Brunnenmeyer June 4, 2002

This too is a good collection of releases by lesser known as well as contemporary artists from the Rounder collection. There are 22 tracks on this CD, and all of them are quite good. Note: This CD is part of a two CD release from Rounder Records. The companion CD is titled Bluegrass Mountain Style and features contemporary headliners performing bluegrass songs.
Dennis Brunnenmeyer - April 14, 2002

This is McGann's first album and is a combination of original and two traditional compositions. Included is one of her best songs "Man's Job," about a women who take a job that has traditional been though of as being a "man's job." Lot's of social content on this CD. Highly recommended. Tracks: 2, 3, 5, 6.
DJ

Originally released in 1983, this album should have been a classic. Alas, it was released on a small label and although Mangsen's talents are much more appreciated now, too few copies were sold. Three of the twelve tracks are traditional and the rest by writers such as Greg Brown, Tom Paxton, Jean Richie, Stephan Foster and Art Thieme. Mangsen's voice shines as she makes the material hers. Highly recommended! Tracks: 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12
DJ

Subtitled "Music of 18th Century America," the European influences of "American" music are quite evident, and most pieces would work in a Celtic set. Not all the instruments that the group uses were used in the 18th century, but collection of tunes gives a good impression of the music of the time. Mostly instrumentals. Tracks: 1, 2, 5, 7, 10, 11, 12, 13.
DJ

This CD of traditional style folk music is comprised of ten vocals and 6 instrumentals. The best of the vocals are the ones that Boosinger takes the lead. With her talents available and Erbsen a so-so vocalist, it's a shame not to hear more of her (She does have a solo album Down the Road.) The instrumentals are quiet good Tracks: 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 11 ,12, 15.
DJ

This CD is also available as a CD/instruction book package published by Mel Bay, which should be a clue to the virtuosity of the musicians. Yes they are very good. They perform a different, but equally good, version of the "Golden Vanity." Tracks: 1, 5, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15.
DJ

Sisters Jennifer & Hazel have nine albums to their credit (solo & with others), all released in their homeland Scotland. There is a little more new-age influence to their usual traditional style on this effort. Still, there is some fine fiddle & guitar playing. Tracks: 1, 5, 6, 8, 12.
DJ

The original Terriers consisted of Eric Darling, who played with the Weavers and is still recording, Alan Arkin, who went on to fame as an actor and Bob Cary. The group followed the Weavers and preceded the Kingston Trio. The CD which is a compilation of two previous LPs, and has a sound that is a little dated, but several cuts have help up. Tracks: 6, 8, 12, 15, 19, 21, 22, 24.
DJ

The group specializes in Celtic and Early Music, both found on this CD. Tracks: 1, 2, 8, 9, 10, 14.
DJ

No Gravity is a nice collection of traditional instrumental and vocal music with some Light originals adding to the mix. Laura plays a mean fiddle and has a lovely voice. The talented back up band does a fine job. Tracks: 1, 3, 4, 7, 8, 10, 12.
DJ

This CD is a mix of original vocal material and traditional style instrumentals. Schneckenburger is another excellent young female fiddler. Tracks: 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 10, 11, 12.
DJ

I am skeptical of any Celtic album that has "Danny Boy" on it. Although "Danny Boy" is the first track, there are redeeming selections on this CD. Germano plays the harp and hammered dulcimer with skill and grace. Tracks: 3, 5, 6, 7,
DJ

Have you noticed how well classical (especially baroque) music integrates with Celtic music? Harmonious will convince you if you haven't. Germano plays the harp and hammered dulcimer with skill and grace. Tracks: 1, 4, 5, 7, 8.
DJ

On the Wings is an ecelctic mix of Celtic, classical and jazz (Oliver Nelson's masterpiece "Stolen Moments"). Some of the pieces are overly symphonic and the ensemble pieces work the best. Tracks: 1, 3, 4, 6, 12.
DJ

Tuerff sings humorous songs, backing himself with an acoustic guitar. Most of the songs are very clever. The exception is "The Beatles Are Witches" which details the attack on George Harrison and I didn't get the point of it. Tracks: 2, 3, 4, 7, 10.
DJ

Another in the series from Sing Out! magazine. As with others in the series, excellent in scope and detail. Tracks: 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 20.
DJ

The selections are a mix of bluegrass or country influenced material. There is not the avant guard edge as you might expect from the title but that is an advantage as far as I am concerned. The Daddies are very good instrumentalists with good vocals. Tracks: 1, 5, 6, 8, 10.
DJ

Pop music's gain was definitely traditional Celtic's music loss when Paul Brady chose his new career path. Brady recorded several albums on his own and with other Celtic luminaries but they were far too few. His strongest, a solo effort, Welcome Here Kind Stranger was never re-issued as a CD. Fortunately, for us lovers of Brady's interpretation of traditional Celtic music, a 1978 concert in Dublin's Liberty Hall was recorded. The tapes were misplaced for 23 years before being rediscovered by Brady. Not only are the best selections recorded on Welcome Here... covered, but several great songs are included. Brady performs the finest version of the "Lakes of Ponchartrain" I have ever heard. Joining Brady on this live performance are Celtic music giants Andy Irvine, Donal Lunny, Matt Malloy, Liam Flynn, Paddy Glackin and Noel Hill. Absolutely essential! Tracks: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10.
DJ

Fronting the Intentions is Dry Branch Fire Squad's Bill Evans with able support from some of the best bay area traditional musicians Eric & Suzy Thompson and Alan Senauke. That's a lot of talent to squeeze into one group. The title may be Old As Dirt but the playing is clean and spirited. The influences are old but the arrangements are not antiques. The love of material is evident in every track. I liked every selection but the "Jack of Diamonds," "Girl On the Green Briar Shore" and the grammatically challenged "You Got To Righten That Wrong" are stand outs. Tracks: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13.
DJ

Originally recorded in concert, April 1997, in La Palma, Spain and released on an Irish label this CD received only limited distribution in this country. Thanks to Compass, this superb recording will have greater access to US audiences. The band consists of unusually talented young musicians with a confident Cathy Jordan the lead vocalist. They transfer the energy of their youth into fiery hot jigs and reels. Jordan does an excellent job on the ballads and does the announcing for the band. The only fault with this two CD set is that there is a tad too much stage banter included. However this minor fault is overwhelmed by the benefit of the inspired performances generated from the enthusiastic audience. Tracks: Disc1: 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 14, Disc 2: 3, 7, 9, 11, 12, 16, 19, 21, 22.
DJ

Smithsonian/Folkways has re-released a number of recordings of Pete Seeger, mostly compilations from his many recordings. This is the first that concentrates on what we think of as traditional folk music. I can not think of a better interpreter of this material that Seeger, who has devoted his life to bringing folk music, whether it is the politically charged or traditional ballads. (Included are a number of songs that were written by known composers, e.g. Woody Guthrie. These "singer/songwriter" selections are contemporary, but written in the traditional style.) There are way too many favorites included in this 28 track, 72 minute CD to list all of my favorites. I can hardly wait until volume 2 is released. Tracks: 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 21.
DJ

Great title for this CD. Unfortunately, not all the songs live up to the cleverness of the title, but there are several that are quite good. House's voice is a little rough around the edges and like Tom Waits, an acquired taste. Tracks: 5, 6, 11.
DJ

Well produced by Bob Carlin, this CD has a lot going it. For example, lots of talent, in vocals, instrumentation and arrangement. The selections are a mix of traditional and originals by the band. Good listening! Tracks: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12.
DJ

This, the third album by New England based band consists of material from that region. However, the European, mostly Celtic, influence predominates. Vocals and instrumentals are split more or less evenly. Mary Lee Partington's voice is exceptional, the instrumentation is superb and the selections unique. Tracks: 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12.
DJ

Graves plays the concertina, hence the CD title, Black Box. The material ranges from trad folk to contemporary but the stand-outs are the more traditional pieces. Tracks: 1, 6, 7, 9, 12, 13.
DJ

The selections are all from the play Post wrote about Twain. The songs are clever and hold their own musically as well. All are in the traditional style. Tracks: 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15.
DJ

Italian guitarist Gambetta (who is very familiar with trad. American music) teams up with bluegrass guitarist Crary in a concert recording. The material varies from traditional American to classical to contemporary to Italian. The picking will twist your ears off (and back on again!). Highly recommended. Tracks: 2, 5, 7, 10, 12, 15, 16, 18, 19, 22.
DJ

Except for the first track, all of the selections are traditional with arrangements by Mabus. Mabus is a great picker and his voice is well suited to his choice of material. This CD is one of the very few I have heard where every single track is for airplay! Of course, highly recommended.
DJ

Straw Into Gold consists of four women who sing in close harmony. This is a concept CD with the theme (mostly) about spinning & weaving. Tracks: 4, 6, 8, 10, 11.
DJ

Folk 'N Review is not published with any KVMR funds. Constructive criticism, contrary opinions, humor and suggestions welcome for publication.

You can have Folk 'N Review delivered every once in a while to your KVMR mail box or e-mail box. Leave a message in my KVMR mail box or send an e-mail to me at: donj@infostations.net.