Isn’t it funny how a set of covers can sound so revolutionary. The Seldom Scene certainly began their career in the early 70s looking at bluegrass a bit differently. Way back when, their style was one of the first of the “progressive” style of bluegrass. Yet now, the band is on Smithsonian records and is one of the torchbearers of the genre. And to think a couple of cover songs could be so revolutionary. But Seldom Scene has managed to turn covers into a true art form.
With all of that as a backdrop, and throughout numerous lineup changes, the band has come out with another album that merges traditional picking with progressive covers (often of the classic rock variety). As I mentioned in my live review from earlier this year, the band’s rendition of Gram Parsons classic “Hickory Wind” seamlessly brings together the disparate 70s country-rock with the traditional bluegrass texture. The tight harmonies and up-the-neck banjo backbone breathe new life into the song. Ben Eldridge’s banjo break is so melodic that it lends the song a sweet longing that would make Gram smile.
John Prine’s “Paradise” is also reimagined as a rollicking picking affair complete with tight harmonies. The arrangement that allows the players to stretch out a bit. This tune fits in nicely with the driving sound of “What Am I Doing Hangin’ Round.”
When it comes down to it, there’s no doubt that the beauty of bluegrass is often most easily enjoyed by just letting the band play. Nowhere is that more clear than on the Bill Monroe’s “Little Georgia Rose.” Ben Eldridge’s banjo drives the song forward in front of close harmonies and Lou Reid’s mandolin. Its just a fun listen.
The vocals are universally beautiful on this record. To hear them without the cover of a fast driving banjo roll, you can really tell how tightly the vocals blend together. In particular, “Walk Through this World With Me” is a song that if it was done any other way may sound cheesy. In this bands hands it sounds authentic and heartfelt. That’s the kind of cover that has changed the direction of bluegrass music.
Photos by Jeff McMahon
About the author: Jeff is a teacher in the Boston area. When not buried correcting papers, Jeff can be found plucking various stringed instruments and listening to all types of americana music.