Mike Stiles wrote this review.
Here’s one that goes right down into the roots of bluegrass. The Patriots are Dan Mitchell (fiddle), Glenn Zankey (guitar), Danny Rogers (standup bass), Ken Seaman (banjo), and Willie McDonald (mandolin). Everyone sings, too.
Whether this band is covering A. P. Carter’s “Winding Stream,” or the Tompall Glaser/Harlan Howard hit “Streets of Baltimore,” or traditional numbers like “Down in the Valley” and “Eat at the Welcome Table,” you’re going to get that real old time sound. There aren’t that many bands of this caliber any more that promote the original sound pioneered by Bill Monroe and friends. These good old boys play it all fresh while keeping it tight and true.
Although the band has been playing for 25 years, this CD is the first to appear in nearly seven. The only change in personnel is the sad omission of Rick Bradstreet (resonator guitar) due to illness. The project is a fitting tribute to Rick, who crossed the Great Divide before getting to hear the finished product. Dan Mitchell’s fiddle playing has filled the gap though, and the sound is every bit as good as anyone could ask for.
I especially enjoyed the informative liner notes. A traditional band owes it to listeners and sources to keep the stories going. And it’s all done in the spirit of sitting on the porch of the general store. The lineup of songs follows diverse paths, ranging from the mountains themselves through the Grand Ol’ Opry and cascading along radio shows where music like this once reigned supreme. I was also pleased to find on their Web site that they’ve recently completed a tour of Ireland, Scotland and England, where I’m sure they got the welcome they deserve.
It wouldn’t be enough to just order a Bluegrass Patriots CD. This band must be hellacious as a live act, so check out their concert schedule and catch a gig if you get the chance.
(Copper Creek, 2004)
[Update: Sadly, The Bluegrass Patriots called it quits in 2011.]
