Search - Dry Branch Fire Squad :: Long Journey (by: Dry Branch Fire Squad)

Excellent traditional bluegrass

mamabird9 | Dayton, OH United States | 04/07/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you haven't heard of this wonderful bluegrass band & you like traditional bluegrass, then BE SURE to check out Dry Branch FireSquad -- either find them on tour (they seem to be on the road all the time!) or listen to some of the tracks above. All their music is great, but this CD is one of my all-time favorites -- I've introduced non-bluegrass fans to it & converted them with this album alone. From the heartfelt "Long Journey" to the peppy "Jesus on the Mainline," you'll find a broad range of old-timey Kentucky Bluegrass & Gospel music. I think their version of "Rain and Snow" is hands down the best I've ever heard and when I listen to songs like "Don't Ever Look Back," I can swear I hear my great-grandmother singing to me still. This is a wonderful studio recording for DryBranch, but they are also memorable for their live performances. IF YOU EVER HAVE THE CHANCE, GO SEE THEM LIVE. You'll never forget it. For a sense of their live experience, check out the CD "Live at Last" -- but until they come to your area, try this album. From the haunting vocals, to the zippy mandolin & banjo, this band has an honest-to-goodness old-timey sound that will have you humming (or singing) along in no time. If you're a long-time bluegrass fan, you'll appreciate these variations on old favorites (with a few of their own songs thrown in for good measure). If you're new to the bluegrass phenomenon and you liked the music in O Brother, then you'll like this band, too. Listen to some of the song samples & you'll see what I mean! Click on "Old Katy Hill" for an instrumental or "Rain & Snow" for that mournful mountain sound, or "I'd Rather Be the Girl You Left Behind" for a combination of harmony & fun. Enjoy!"