Search - John Reischman & The Jaybirds :: Road West

This group continues to thrill us with musicality and verve

J. Ross | Roseburg, OR USA | 04/26/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Playing Time - 47:34 -- With a solid band that hasn't undergone any personnel changes for years, John Reischman and the Jaybirds demonstrate how a bunch of great pickers and singers can get even tighter and more cohesive as time goes on. Known for their well-chosen and arranged material, presented in expert fashion, this group continues to thrill us with musicality and verve. The 16 songs cover a great deal of territory, but they always stay true to bluegrass sensibilities despite a few side excursions into old-time and folk presentations such as "As Time Draws Near." If they cover a traditional number like "Sandy Boys" or "Liza Jane," the Jaybirds brand it with their own unique musical mark. And their repertoire has no dearth of original material that is characterized by upbeat instrumentals and evocative songs spotlighting their two lead vocalists, Trisha Gagnon (bass) and Jim Nunally (guitar). Nunally's title cut was inspired by Steinbeck's Grapes of Wrath and some of his own family's dust bowl history. Gagnon's "Blackberry Bramble" captures some favorite childhood memories. Mandolinist Reischman typically adds baritone or low tenor harmonies, but it's nice to hear him sing lead to Jim's tenor on "Old Reuben No. 1." Rounding out the band in fine form are Nick Hornbuckle (banjo) and Greg Spatz (fiddle) who both know how to provide just the right amount of winsome accompaniment.



The third album from John Reischman and the Jaybirds is a very strong, tastefully-rendered project. It solidly reinforces this band's place as one of the most engaging and dynamic acts in the western bluegrass scene. Much of the fervor in their sound is a result of their charged-up instrumental support and adventurous escapades built from older music that has considerable roots. (Joe Ross, staff writer, Bluegrass Now)

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