by Steven Miller
Sierra Hull has built an impressive career that has been precocious and prodigious, with her mandolin mastery and vocal gifts earning her a place among bluegrass royalty. From her early Grand Ole Opry appearances to Grammy nominations, Hull has continually expanded the boundaries of her artistry. Her latest single, a cover of Tears for Fears’ “Mad World,” provides another example of her ability to transcend genre labels while staying rooted in the craftsmanship that has made her a bluegrass standout.
“Mad World,” a song originally released in 1982 by Tears for Fears, has been covered by many [...]
by Steven Miller
In the vast forest of bluegrass music, a mighty poplar has emerged, firmly rooted in tradition while reaching for new heights. This self-titled debut from the bluegrass supergroup Mighty Poplar brings together five of the genre’s most esteemed musicians, each contributing their unique flavor to a harmonious whole.
Mighty Poplar consists of an all-star lineup: Andrew Marlin of Watchhouse on vocals and mandolin, Noam Pikelny and Chris Eldridge of Punch Brothers on banjo and guitar respectively, Greg Garrison of Leftover Salmon on bass, and Alex Hargreaves, currently touring with Billy Strings, on fiddle. This [...]
One of These Days marks a significant return for Baltimore native Cris Jacobs with his self-released gem that traverses the terrains of Country, Bluegrass, and Americana. Under the adept production of Jerry Douglas and featuring collaborations with notable artists, the album is a set of eleven well-written songs. After a five-year hiatus, Jacobs has created a flow of folk, blues, gospel, and bluegrass with a contemporary flair, crafting a must-listen for fans of rich storytelling and musical depth.
Jacobs’ journey through personal hardships and a global pandemic has culminated in this album, birthed in the solitude of his barn. The [...]
The Steep Canyon Rangers brings us the vibrant hues of bluegrass, woven with tones of history, personal tales, and musical mastery. Morning Shift, the latest offering from the seasoned ensemble, is nothing short of a musical journey. Each track, elegantly constructed and artfully performed, reflects the band’s profound understanding of their craft and place within the genre’s storied tradition. But let’s dive deep into this album that serves as a chronicle of the human spirit, transcending time and space.
The Steep Canyon Rangers are [...]
